Maze Routing Algorithms with Exact Matching Constraints for Analog and Mixed Signal Designs

Design automation for analog and mixed signal designs has become more important, as analog and digital components are integrated on the same system-on-chips (SOCs). Exact route matching is an important constraint for analog and mixed signal designs with non-uniform metal stacks. In this paper, we propose a constrained-path based maze routing algorithm that can handle exact matching constraints for multiple nets. We also propose a scalable framework that utilizes the proposed maze routing algorithm for realistic problem sizes. Compared to the pattern routing algorithms proposed recently [8], our algorithms allow a more thorough exploration of the solution space by allowing bends to be inserted to avoid congested regions. The experimental study demonstrates that the proposed algorithm leads to significant reductions in congestion costs compared to the previous algorithm.