A combined eigenvector tabu search approach for circuit partitioning

The authors introduce the use of the Tabu search method to guide the Sanchis (1989) multi-way interchange algorithm and improve the initial generated partition given by the eigenvector model. The combination of Tabu search and Sanchis interchange algorithm gives rise to a powerful hybrid algorithm. Good initial partitions obtained by the numerical eigenvector method allow the iterative improvement method under the guidance of Tabu search to refine that initial partition quality in a reasonable amount of time, thus reducing the computational time and enhancing the solution quality. Results obtained indicate that the quality of solutions and running time of this method are superior to results obtained from random starting points.