In the field of design automation, in general and in the automatic design of digital computers in particular, it is frequently necessary to translate machine descriptions and designer requests from the input language to the language of the design automation system. This process is very similar to the translation of artificial computer programming languages into machine language. Hence, it is reasonable to attempt to apply the techniques developed for writing compilers to the task of translation required within a design automation system. In this paper we will describe the use of one such tool, the meta-compiler or syntax directed compiler.[1]

This paper is a brief discussion of the preliminary specifications design automation system (DAS) for digital devices. The goal of the proposed system is to allow a systems designer to describe his initial requirements to evaluate and modify his design as it passes through the various stages automatic implementation. The development of this system is motivated by need for eneration of an extensive library of designs for use in the UCLA Variable Structure Computer System1 and by the need for a framework in which optimization research studies may be carried out. It is hoped that this system may also provide information and tools for the many industrial organizations who cannot Justify investment in a design automation system.