Timing optimization of memory blocks in a programmable ic

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for implementing a circuit design are provided. A physical description is generated corresponding to a predefined physical layout of a programmable integrated circuit. The circuit design includes a memory block. A timing analysis is executed to determine a first timing profile of the physical description. The physical description is optimized (or at least altered), and a physical implementation is generated based on the optimized physical description. Optimizing the physical description includes: selectively moving from or into the memory block of the physical description a register in response to an attribute of the memory block; executing a timing analysis to determine a second timing profile of the physical description with the register moved from or into the memory block of the physical description; comparing the first and second timing profiles; and selectively accepting or reversing the moving based on the comparison of the first and second timing profiles.