Turns Engine Output Files, Limitations

Turns Engine (PAR Multi-Tasking Option)

Turns Engine Output Files

The naming convention for the NCD file, which may contain placement and routing information in varying degrees of completion, is placer_level_router_level_cost_table.ncd. If any of these elements are not used, they are represented by an x. For example, for the first design file run with the options –n 5 –t 16 –rl std –pl high, the NCD output file name would be high_std_16.ncd. The second file would be named high_std_17.ncd. For the first design file being run with the options –n 5 –t 16 –r –pl high, the NCD output file name would be high_x_16.ncd. The second file would be named high_x_17.ncd.

Limitations

The following limitations apply to the Turns Engine.

•The Turns Engine can operate only on Xilinx FPGA families. It cannot operate on CPLDs.

•Each run targets the same part, and uses the same algorithms and options. Only the starting point, or the cost table entry, is varied.

System Requirements

To use the Turns Engine, all of the nodes named in the nodelist must be able to access a common directory, most likely through a network-accessible file system.

If needed, one of the files in this directory can be used to set any environment variables that are needed to run PAR (e.g., XILINX, PATH, LD_LIBRARY_PATH). This can be accomplished as follows:

Create a file with a fixed path that can be accessed by all of the systems you are using. This file might be named something like:

/net/${nodename}/home/jim/parmsetup

In this file, add whatever lines are needed to set up environment variables that are needed to run PAR. This file will be interpreted by /bin/sh (Bourne shell) on each target node before starting PAR, so environment variables must be set using Bourne shell conventions. When running in a Solaris environment, the contents of this file might look like:

XILINX=/net/${nodename}/home/jim/xilinx

export XILINX

PATH=$XILINX/bin/sol:/usr/bin:/usr/sbin

export PATH

LD_LIBRARY_PATH=$XILINX/bin/sol

export LD_LIBRARY_PATH

For environments that mix different kinds of nodes (e.g., Solaris and Linux), a more sophisticated script might be needed to set up the proper environment.

After creating this file, set the environment variable PAR_M_SETUPFILE to the name of your file, as shown in the following examples.

Development System Reference Guide

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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 Turns Engine Output Files, Limitations, System Requirements

Models: 8.2i

Turns Engine (PAR Multi-Tasking Option)

Turns Engine Output Files

Limitations

System Requirements

8.2i specifications