Chapter 12: TRACE

R

TRACE Options

This section describes the TRACE command line options.

–a (Advanced Analysis)

The –a option is only used if you are not supplying any timing constraints (from a PCF) to TRACE. The –a option writes out a timing report with the following information:

•An analysis that enumerates all clocks and the required OFFSETs for each clock.

•An analysis of paths having only combinatorial logic, ordered by delay.

This information is supplied in place of the default information for the output timing report type (summary, error, or verbose).

Note: An analysis of the paths associated with a particular clock signal includes a hold violation (race condition) check only for paths whose start and endpoints are registered on the same clock edge.

–e (Generate an Error Report)

–e[limit]

The –e option causes the timing report to be an error report instead of the default summary report. See “Error Report” for a sample error report.

The report has the same root name as the input design and has a .twr extension.

The optional limit is an integer limit on the number of items reported for each timing constraint in the report file. The value of limit must be an integer from 0 to 32,000 inclusive. The default is 3.

–f (Execute Commands File)

–fcommand_file

The –f option specifies the command file to use as input.

–fastpaths (Report Fastest Paths)

–fastpaths

The –fastpaths option is used to report the fastest paths of a design.

Note: This option is being deprecated in this release and will not be available in future releases of Xilinx software.

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Xilinx 8.2i manual Trace Options, Advanced Analysis, Generate an Error Report, Fastpaths Report Fastest Paths, Elimit
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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.
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