Research Institute for Discrete Mathematics

Lecture Course "Chip Design"

Summer Term 2020

Module V4C3 and MA-INF 1202


This course is part of the Master's Programs in Mathematics and Computer Science. Basic knowledge in combinatorial optimization is required.

Chip design is one of the most interesting application areas of mathematics. We discuss theory and practice. Many applications of combinatorial optimization will be shown. Recent theory, algorithms, and implications of new chip technologies will be discussed. The course covers topics in Boolean circuit optimization, placement, timing optimization, and routing.

This course is in English. Since there exists no suitable textbook yet, I am distributing lecture notes on eCampus (ln.pdf) that are continuously revised. Many topics and references can also be found in:

See also here for some links.
The Arithmeum hosts a exposition "Mathematik und Ästhetik des Chipdesigns". Some features can also be watched online (so far in german only). They give an impression on some of the problems that we will study mathematically in depth.


Class Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:15-13:45, starting April 10.
First Lecture: April 21.
Room: Due to covid-19, we will start online using Zoom. A blog with the access to Zoom and the lecture notes, as well as a forum for online discussions can be found on eCampus.
eCampus: Chip Design on eCampus.
Exercise Class: Mondays, 10-12 am, same Zoom meeting room as lecture.


Prof. Dr. S. Held