A system is provided that facilitates placing repeating flip-flop stations on
signal
lines within an integrated circuit. The system operates by first receiving a layout
that includes multiple functional blocks, and a netlist that specifies interconnections
for signals between these functional blocks. The system determines a transit time
for a signal interconnecting the functional blocks. If this transit time exceeds
an allowed time, the system divides the interconnection into two or more sections,
wherein the transit times on the sections are each less than the allowed time.
The system then places a repeating flip-flop station within a channel on the integrated
circuit in a position that allows the transit time on these sections to be met.
Next, the system routes the signal from the originating functional block through
a flip-flop located at the repeating flip-flop station to a receiver at the destination
functional block.