Abstract: Memory modules implemented on an FPGA device are re-implemented to improve the performance of the device, such as to reduce logic delays. One or more logic blocks of the FPGA device that realize the logic function of a memory module or portion of a memory module are desirably selected. Based on the outcome of a timing analysis, the most critical signal pin of the selected logic blocks may be identified. Methods of deriving the memory module re-implementation for various types of the most critical pins are disclosed. Procedures are described for integrating physical timing analysis, memory transformation, placement, and routing, as well as for the selection of logic blocks for re-implementation.

Abstract: A smaller mask programmable gate array (MPGA) device derived from a larger field programmable gate array (FPGA), comprising: a layout of transistors and a plurality of interconnect layers substantially identical to a smaller region of the FPGA; and input/output pads matching a subset of the input/output pads of the FPGA; wherein, a design that is mapped to said smaller region of the FPGA device using said subset of input/output pads by a user programmable means can be identically mapped to the MPGA by a hard-wire circuit. Such a gate array further comprises a mask programmable metal-circuit in lieu of a user programmable configuration circuit of the FPGA; and a logic block to input/output pad connection in lieu of a logic block to a register at the boundary of said smaller region to an input/output pad connection of the FPGA.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for retiming an integrated circuit are described. According to certain embodiments, the retiming comprises performing a timing analysis for one or more paths in the integrated circuit to obtain slack values, selecting one of the paths based on the slack values obtained, and determining a retimeable cut along the path selected. The retimeable cut in these exemplary embodiments comprises a set of input pins for one or more logic instances in the integrated circuit to which one or more retimed sequential elements can be coupled in order to improve the slack value of the path selected. In particular embodiments, the retimeable cut is automatically selected from multiple possible cuts along the path selected. Other embodiments for retiming integrated circuits are disclosed, as well as integrated circuits and circuit design databases retimed by the disclosed methods. Computer-executable media storing instructions for performing the disclosed methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for retiming an integrated circuit are described. According to certain embodiments, the retiming comprises performing a timing analysis for one or more paths in the integrated circuit to obtain slack values, selecting one of the paths based on the slack values obtained, and determining a retimeable cut along the path selected. The retimeable cut in these exemplary embodiments comprises a set of input pins for one or more logic instances in the integrated circuit to which one or more retimed sequential elements can be coupled in order to improve the slack value of the path selected. In particular embodiments, the retimeable cut is automatically selected from multiple possible cuts along the path selected. Other embodiments for retiming integrated circuits are disclosed, as well as integrated circuits and circuit design databases retimed by the disclosed methods. Computer-executable media storing instructions for performing the disclosed methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: Memory modules implemented on an FPGA device are re-implemented to improve the performance of the device, such as to reduce logic delays. One or more logic blocks of the FPGA device that realize the logic function of a memory module or portion of a memory module are desirably selected. Based on the outcome of a timing analysis, the most critical signal pin of the selected logic blocks may be identified. Methods of deriving the memory module re-implementation for various types of the most critical pins are disclosed. Procedures are described for integrating physical timing analysis, memory transformation, placement, and routing, as well as for the selection of logic blocks for re-implementation.