Research Institute for Discrete Mathematics

Lecture Course "Chip Design"

Summer Term 2024

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 will distribute lecture notes on eCampus that are continuously revised. Many topics and references can also be found in:

See also here for further reading.
The Arithmeum hosts parts the comprehensive exposition "Mathematics and aesthetics of chip design" and online videos and games about chip design .
They help to understand the overall chip design problem and give an impression on some of the problems that we will study mathematically in depth.


Class Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:15-13:45.
First Lecture: April 9, 2024.
Room: Gerhard-Konow Hörsaal (main lecture room in the Arithmeum).
eCampus: https://ecampus.uni-bonn.de/goto_ecampus_crs_3268414.html
Exercise Class: Tuesdays, 10-12 am. It will start in the second week.


Prof. Dr. S. Held