FACT: Fast and Accurate Multi-Corner Predictor for Timing Closure in Commercial EDA Flows

With technology scaling progressing well into deep nanometer region, the number of technology corners surges from dozens to hundreds. Timing closure at Engineering Change Orders (ECO) stage is becoming increasingly challenging and time-consuming. Existing methodologies mainly focus on improving efficiency by predicting the full-corner timing metrics based on known corners. However, the escalating demand of known corners essential for complete timing deductions significantly prolongs the application of these methods. In this work, we propose a framework called FACT, to fast and accurately predict full-corner timing metrics for timing closure optimization circle. Our approach simplifies the process by necessitating timing analysis under only one known corner. Moreover, our framework seamlessly integrates with commercial EDA design flows, making it practical in industrial environments. Experimental results on open-source designs indicate superior stability of our method. Additionally, our approach achieves a significant runtime speed-up over previous ML-based timing ECO flows. CCS CONCEPTS • Hardware → Methodologies for EDA; Static timing analysis.