Chapter 16: PROMGen

R

The following figure shows the inputs and the possible outputs of the PROMGen program:

 

 

BIT

 

 

PROMGen

EXO

MCS

TEK

PROM File

PROM File

PROM File

PRM

Memory Map

HEXBIN

Device Configuration

X9560

Figure 16-1: PROMGen

There are two functionally equivalent versions of PROMGen. There is a stand-alone version that you can access from an operating system prompt. There is also an interactive version, called the PROM formatting wizard that you can access from inside Project Navigator (see the iMPACT online help).

You can also use PROMGen to concatenate bitstream files to daisy-chain FPGAs.

Note: If the destination PROM is one of the Xilinx Serial PROMs, you are using a Xilinx PROM Programmer, and the FPGAs are not being daisy-chained, it is not necessary to make a PROM file.

PROMGen Syntax

To start PROMGen from the operating system prompt, use the following syntax:

promgen [options]

options can be any number of the options listed in “PROMGen Options”. Separate multiple options with spaces.

PROMGen Input Files

The input to PROMGEN consists of one or more BIT and RBT files. BIT files contain configuration data for an FPGA design.

PROMGen Output Files

Output from PROMGEN consists of the following files:

•PROM files—The file or files containing the PROM configuration information. Depending on the PROM file format your PROM programmer uses, you can output a TEK, MCS, BIN, or EXO file. If you are using a microprocessor to configure your devices, you can output a HEX file, which contains a hexadecimal representation of the bitstream.

•PRM file—The PRM file is a PROM image file. It contains a memory map of the output PROM file. The file has a .prm extension.

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Xilinx 8.2i manual PROMGen Syntax, PROMGen Input Files, PROMGen Output Files, Promgen options
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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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