Chapter 12: TRACE

R

Data Sheet Report

The Data Sheet report summarizes the external timing parameters for your design. Only inputs, outputs and clocks that have constraints appear in the Data Sheet report for verbose and error reports. Tables shown in the Data Sheet report depend on the type of timing paths present in the design, as well as the applied timing constraints. Unconstrained path analysis can be used with a constraints file to increase the coverage of the report to include paths not explicitly specified in the constraints file. In he absence of a physical constraints file (PCF), all I/O timing is analyzed and reported (less the effects of any default path tracing controls). The Data Sheet report includes the source and destination PAD names, and either the propagation delay between the source and destination or the setup and hold requirements for the source relative to the destination.

There are four methods of running TRACE to obtain a complete Data Sheet report:

Run with advanced analysis (–a)

Run using default analysis (that is, with no constraints file and without advanced analysis)

Construct constraints to cover all paths in the design

Run using the unconstrained path report for constraints that only partially cover the design

Following are tables, including delay characteristics, that appear in the Data Sheet report:

Input Setup and Hold Times

This table shows the setup and hold time for input signals with respect to an input clock at a source pad. It does not take into account any phase introduced by the DCM/DLL. If an input signal goes to two different destinations, the setup and hold are worst case for that signal. It might be the setup time for one destination and the hold time for another destination.

Output Clock to Out Times

This table shows the clock-to-out signals with respect to an input clock at a source pad. It does not take into account any phase introduced by the DCM/DLL. If an output signal is a combinatorial result of different sources that are clocked by the same clock, the clock-to-out is the worst-case path.

Clock Table

The clock table shows the relationship between different clocks. The Source Clock column shows all of the input clocks. The second column shows the delay between the rising edge of the source clock and the destination clock. The next column is the data delay between the falling edge of the source and the rising edge of the destination.

If there is one destination flip-flop for each source flip-flop the design is successful. If a source goes to different flip-flops of unrelated clocks, one flip-flop might get the data and another flip-flop might miss it because of different data delays.

You can quickly navigate to the Data Sheet report by clicking the corresponding item in the Hierarchical Report Browser.

External Setup and Hold Requirements

Timing accounts for clock phase relationships and DCM phase shifting for all derivatives of a primary clock input, and report separate data sheet setup and hold requirements for each primary input. Relative to all derivatives of a primary clock input covered by a timing constraint.

226

www.xilinx.com

Development System Reference Guide

Page 226
Image 226
Xilinx 8.2i manual Data Sheet Report

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.