Invar-a new approach to EDA benchmark generation

Abstract

This article introduces a new method for generating benchmark circuits. Common methods of testing physical design algorithms and functional verifications used today rely on standardised sets of widely accepted benchmark circuits, or on generating a random benchmark circuit based on its desired characteristics. Although these approaches are suitable in many situations, sometimes it is advantageous to know an exact function of a benchmark circuit. This article introduces a new method for generating benchmarks that is based on structural modifications of a user-specified design without altering its function. The method uses a set of pre-defined operations on a circuit netlist. The method is demonstrated on several examples.