Multi-chip device partitioning process

An efficient method for partitioning, for example, FPGA devices is described which optimizes the number of devices required to implement a design. The method involves generating a hierarchical graph of a feasible bipartition of the cells of the design. Feasible pairs are merged, followed by flattening of the hierarchical graph. The number of I/O pins of the new partition is then reduced, upon which a hierarchical graph is derived. A perturbed partition is then generated, followed by restoration of feasibility.