ABSTRACT
Routing refers to the tasks, algorithms, and electronic design automation (EDA) tools that are used throughout the integrated circuit (IC) design process to create interconnect (metallization) shapes.* Every IC is composed of devices, including switching devices (transistors) and passive devices, that are fabricated by depositing materials layer by layer. e initial set of layers are used to fabricate devices; the latter set of layers, collectively called metallization, supply the power and provide the necessary connections between the devices (Figure 8.1). Routing is key in driving power, area, cost, and performance optimization of an IC, as it inuences early technology decisions and design floorplanning, drives placement decisions, and is a principal part of physical synthesis tools. It is also the last major construction step of IC design ows and thus heavily impacts the productivity of a design team.
