Timing Closure Mode, Xplorer Syntax | Xilinx 8.2i instruction

Xplorer

Result:

Xplorer implements the design with different architecture-specific optimization strategies and timing-driven placement and routing for optimal design performance. The results are summarized in the output Xplorer report (.rpt). The best run is identified at the end of the report file.

Timing Closure Mode

If you have a design with timing constraints and your intent is for the tools to meet the specified constraints, use the Timing Closure Mode. In this mode, you should not specify a clock with the -clk option. Xplorer looks at the UCF to examine the goals for timing constraints. Using these constraints together with optimization strategies such as global optimization, timing-driven packing and placement, register duplication, and cost tables, Xplorer implements the design in multiple ways to deliver optimal design performance.

Because Xplorer runs approximately 10 iterations, you will experience longer PAR runtimes. However, Xplorer is something that is typically run once during a design cycle. After an Xplorer run, you can capture the set of options that will give the best result from the Xplorer report file and use that set of options for future design runs. Typically, designers run the implementation tools many times in a design cycle, so a longer initial runtime will likely reduce the number of PAR iterations later.

Following is sample command line syntax for Timing Closure Mode. For a complete list of Xplorer options, see “Xplorer Options.”:

Example:	xplorer.tcl <design_name> -uc <ucf_name> -p <part_name>

Description:	design_name specifies the name of the top-level EDIF or NGC file.
	ucf_name, specified with the -uc option, specifies the name of the
	UCF that Xplorer uses to examine the goals for timing constraints.
	part_name, specified with the -p option, specifies the complete
	Xilinx part name.

Result:	Xplorer implements the design in multiple ways to deliver optimal
	design performance. The results are summarized in the output
	Xplorer report (.rpt). The best run is identified at the end of the
	report file.

Xplorer Syntax

Xplorer is run from the command line or from the Project Navigator GUI. For information on running Xplorer in Project Navigator, please see the “Using Xplorer in ISE” topic in the online help included with the ISE software. The following syntax is used to run Xplorer script from the command line. Note that when using Windows, the .tcl extension is not used.

xplorer.tcl <design_name> [options] -p <part_name>

design_name is the name of the top-level EDIF or NGC file. This should be the simple name of the file, rather than a full absolute or relative path. If the file is not in the current directory, use the –sd and –wd options to specify the directory where the design resides and the directory in which to write any output files.

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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.

Xilinx 8.2i manual Timing Closure Mode, Xplorer Syntax

Models: 8.2i

Xplorer

Timing Closure Mode

Xplorer Syntax

8.2i specifications