Chapter 6: NGDBuild

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–modular assemble (Module Assembly)

–modular assemble -pimpath pim_directory_path

–use_pimmodule_name1 –use_pimmodule_name2 ...

Note: This option supports current FPGA device families.

The –modular assemble option starts the final phase of the Modular Design flow. In this “Final Assembly” phase, the team leader uses this option to create a fully expanded NGD file that contains logic from the top-level design and each of the Physically Implemented Modules (PIMs). The team leader then implements this NGD file.

Run this option from the top-level design directory.

If you are running the standard Modular Design flow, you do not need to use the – pimpath option. If you do not use the –use_pim option, NGDBuild searches the PIM directory’s subdirectories for NGO files with names that match their subdirectory. It assembles the final design using these NGO files.

If you are running Modular Design in a Partial Assembly flow, use the –pimpath option to specify the directory that contains the PIMs. Use the –use_pim option to identify all the modules in the PIM directory that have been published. Be sure to use exact names of the PIMs, including the proper spelling and capitalization. The input design file should be the NGO file of the top-level design.

Note: When running Modular Design in a Partial Assembly flow, you must use the –modular assemble option with the –u option.

–modular initial (Initial Budgeting of Modular Design)

Note: This option supports current FPGA devices only.

The –modular initial option starts the first phase of the Modular Design flow. In this “Initial Budgeting” phase, the team leader uses this option to generate an NGO and NGD file for the top-level design with all of the instantiated modules represented as unexpanded blocks. After running this option, the team leader sets up initial budgeting for the design. This includes assigning top-level timing constraints and location constraints for various resources, including each module, using the Floorplanner and Constraints Editor tools.

Note: You cannot use the NGD file for mapping.

Run this option from the top-level design directory. The input design file should be an EDIF netlist or an NGC netlist from XST.

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Development System Reference Guide

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Xilinx 8.2i manual Modular assemble Module Assembly, Modular initial Initial Budgeting of Modular Design

8.2i specifications

Xilinx 8.2i is a significant version of the Xilinx ISE (Integrated Software Environment) that emerged in the early 2000s, marking an important milestone in the world of FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) development. This version introduced a slew of advanced features, technologies, and characteristics that made it an indispensable tool for engineers and developers in designing, simulating, and implementing digital circuits.

One of the standout features of Xilinx 8.2i is its enhanced design entry capabilities. This version supports multiple design entry methods, including schematic entry, VHDL, and Verilog HDL, giving engineers the flexibility to choose their preferred approach. The integrated environment provides user-friendly graphical interfaces, making it accessible for both novice and experienced users.

Xilinx 8.2i's synthesis tools have been improved to enable more efficient design compilation and optimization. The new algorithms used in this version facilitate faster synthesis times while reducing power consumption and improving performance. Furthermore, it features support for advanced FPGA architectures, which allows for the implementation of more complex designs with greater efficiency.

The implementation tools in Xilinx 8.2i include advanced place and route capabilities, utilizing state-of-the-art algorithms for optimized resource usage. These tools enable designers to make better use of FPGA resources, ensuring that designs fit within the constraints of the target device while maximizing performance.

Another key characteristic of Xilinx 8.2i is its extensive support for various Xilinx devices such as the Spartan, Virtex, and CoolRunner series. This compatibility ensures that developers can leverage the powerful features of these FPGA families, including high-speed transceivers and DSP slices.

Xilinx 8.2i also places a strong emphasis on simulation and verification. The version integrates with various simulation tools, allowing for thorough testing of the designs before implementation. This reduces the risk of errors and ensures that the final product meets specifications.

In addition, this version includes support for design constraints, enabling engineers to specify timing, area, and other critical design parameters. By accommodating constraints, Xilinx 8.2i helps in achieving reliable and efficient designs tailored to project needs.

In summary, Xilinx 8.2i is a robust software development tool that enhances the design process for FPGAs. Its comprehensive features, including multiple design entry options, advanced synthesis and implementation tools, extensive device support, and strong simulation capabilities, make it a valuable resource for engineers and developers striving for innovation in digital design.