Parallel computing using for VLSI computer-aided design
The paper is devoted to the problem of CAD tools efficiency enhancement for the sake of combinatorial tasks computational speedup by means of code parallelization. The goal of the paper is twofold: first, to propose a frame-work simplifying the creation of distributed software for the supercomputer family “SKIF” [2], that is Beowulf cluster [5] having master-worker architecture and consisting of a large number of interconnected stand-alone (with individual memory) computational nodes and a master frontend node. The nodes run under Linux and collaborate through master node using MPI [6]. The second goal is to show how the parallel calculations conducted by the supercomputer can be integrated with CAD tools implemented in Windows environment. Because solving the logical equation in the form of conjunctive normal form (Boolean satisfiability - SAT) is the most often used approach as the underlying model for a significant and increasing number of EDA algorithms [1], its parallel implementation in the cluster like computing environment was suggested (similar as in [16]). The methodology and software are suggested which provide data compatibility and interworking between cluster computer of Beowulf type and CAD system that are intended for solving laborious tasks of logical design. The suggested grid service is three-layer system consisting of MPI-program for supercomputer, link services and user agent and is based on using open protocols and middleware. As an example the technology and results of fulfilling verification [3, 20] within the environment of program tool of logical design of custom CMOC VLSI [4] were researched. Verification was based on satisfiability problem solving that has been accomplished in remote access by the developed parallel program using high-performance supercomputer.