Chapter 7: MAP

R

The default packfactor value is 100%. This value applies if you do not specify the –c option, or enter the –c option without a packfactor value.

Processing a design with the –c 0 option is a good way to get a first estimate of the number of CLBs required by your design.

–cm (Cover Mode)

–cm {area speed balanced}

The –cm option specifies the criteria used during the cover phase of MAP. In this phase, MAP assigns the logic to CLB function generators (LUTs). Use the area, speed, and balanced settings as follows:

The area setting makes reducing the number of LUTs (and therefore the number of CLBs) the highest priority.

The behavior of the speed setting depends on the existence of user-specified timing constraints. For the design with user-specified timing constraints, the speed mode makes achieving timing constraints the highest priority and reducing the number of levels of LUTS (the number of LUTs a path passes through) the next priority. For the design with no user-specified timing constraints, the speed mode makes achieving maximum system frequency the highest priority and reducing the number levels of LUTs the next priority. This setting makes it easiest to achieve timing constraints after the design is placed and routed. For most designs, there is a small increase in the number of LUTs (compared to the area setting), but in some cases the increase may be large.

The balanced setting balances the two priorities – achieving timing requirements and reducing the number of LUTs. It produces results similar to the speed setting but avoids the possibility of a large increase in the number of LUTs. For a design with user-specified timing constraints, the balanced mode makes achieving timing constraints the highest priority and reducing the number of LUTS the next priority. For the design with no user-specified timing constraints, the balanced mode makes achieving maximum system frequency the highest priority and reducing the number of LUTs the next priority.

The default setting for the –cm option is area (cover for minimum number of LUTs).

–detail (Write Out Detailed MAP Report)

This option writes out a detailed MAP report. The option replaces the

MAP_REPORT_DETAIL environment variable.

–equivalent_register_removal (Remove Redundant Registers)

–equivalent_register_removal onoff

With this option on, any registers with redundant functionality are examined to see if their removal will increase clock frequencies. This option is available for Virtex-4 designs. By default, this option is on.

Note: This option is available only when “–global_opt (Global Optimization)” is used.

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Xilinx 8.2i Cm Cover Mode, Detail Write Out Detailed MAP Report, Equivalentregisterremoval Remove Redundant Registers

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.