Some settings:
1. physical_synthesis_map_logic_to_memory_for_area = on
2. physical_synthesis_combo_logic_for_area = on
3. fmax is set to 125MHz
4. mux_restructure = on
5. allow_any_ram_size_for_recognition = on
6. allow_any_rom_size_for_recognition = on
7. allow_any_shift_register_size_for_recognition = on
8. auto_packed_registers_stratixii = minimise area
9. fitter_effort = standard fit
10. router_effort_multuplier = 2.0
11. router_timing_optimization_level = maximum
12. partition_fitter_preservation_level = placement and routing
13. smart_recompile = on
15. stratixii_optimisation_technique = area
It takes several hours just to get to the fitter stage.
Regards
MT