Xilinx 8.2i manual PAR Reports, Performance Evaluation Mode, Xe Extra Effort Level

Models: 8.2i

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PAR Reports

–x (Performance Evaluation Mode)

par x design.ncd output.ncd design.pcf

The -x option is used if there are timing constraints specified in the physical constraints file, and you want to execute a PAR run with tool-generated timing constraints instead to evaluating the performance of each clock in the design. This operation is referred to as "Performance Evaluation" mode. This mode is entered into either by using the -x option or when no timing constraints are used in a design.The tool-generated timing constraints constrain each internal clock separately and tighten/loosen the constraints based on feedback during execution. The PAR effort level controls whether the focus is on fastest run time (STD), best performance (HIGH) or a balance between run time and performance (MED).

PAR ignores all timing constraints in the design.pcf, and uses all physical constraints, such as LOC and AREA_RANGE.

–xe (Extra Effort Level)

–xeeffort_level

par ol high xe n design.ncd output.ncd design.pcf

Use the –xe option to set the extra effort level. The effort_level variable can be set to n (normal) or c (continue) working even when timing cannot be met. Extra effort n uses additional runtime intensive methods in an attempt to meet difficult timing constraints. If PAR determines that the timing constraints cannot be met, then a message is issued explaining that the timing cannot be met and PAR exits. Extra effort c allows you to direct PAR to continue routing even if PAR determines the timing constraints cannot be met. PAR continues to attempt to route and improve timing until little or no timing improvement can be made.

Note: Use of extra effort c can result in extremely long runtimes.

PAR Reports

The output of PAR is a placed and routed NCD file (the output design file). In addition to the output design file, a PAR run generates a report file with a .par extension. A Guide Report File (.grf) is created when you use the –gf option.

Note: The ReportGen utility can be used to generate pad report files (.pad, pad.txt, and pad.csv). The pinout .pad file is intended for parsing by user scripts. The pad.txt file is intended for user viewing in a text editor. The pad.csv file is intended for directed opening inside of a spreadsheet program. It is not intended for viewing through a text editor. See the “ReportGen” section of this chapter for information on generating and customizing pad reports.

The PAR report contains execution information about the place and route job as well as all constraint messages.

If the options that you specify when running PAR are options that produce a single output design file, your output is the output design (NCD) file, a PAR file, and PAD files. The PAR file and the PAD files have the same root name as the output design file.

If you run multiple iterations of placement and routing, you produce an output design file, a PAR file, and PAD files for each iteration. Consequently, when you run multiple iterations you have to specify a directory in which to place these files.

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Xilinx 8.2i manual PAR Reports, Performance Evaluation Mode, Xe Extra Effort Level

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.