Two methods for post-synthesis circuit optimization are disclosed. In both
methods, the underlying variability in process parameters is captured
through a robust linear program. The robust linear program is then
reformulated as a second order conic program that possesses special
structural properties to allow for a computationally efficient solution
by using interior point optimization methods. The first method treats
gate delays as uncertain quantities and obtains the optimal sizes for
gates in a circuit under a probabilistically specified circuit timing
target. The second method optimizes total circuit power by using a
combination of dual threshold voltage assignment and gate sizing. Both
circuit power and timing are treated probabilistically.