Xilinx 8.2i manual TAEngine Overview

Models: 8.2i

1 422
Download 422 pages 26.35 Kb
Page 309
Image 309

R

Chapter 20

TAEngine

TAEngine is compatible with the following families:

CoolRunnerXPLA3, CoolRunner-II

XC9500, XC9500XL, XC9500XV

This chapter describes the Timing Analysis Engine (TAEngine) program. TAEngine is a command line executable that performs static timing analysis on implemented Xilinx CPLD designs. This chapter includes the following sections:

“TAEngine Overview”

“TAEngine Syntax”

“TAEngine Input Files”

“TAEngine Output Files”

“TAEngine Options”

TAEngine Overview

TAEngine takes an implemented CPLD design file (VM6) from CPLDfit and performs a static timing analysis of the design’s timing components. The results of the static timing analysis are written to a TAEngine report file (TIM) in summary or detail format.

The default output for TAEngine is a TIM report in summary format, which lists all timing paths and their delays. A detail formatted TIM report, specified with the “–detail (Detail Report)” option, lists all timing paths as well as a summary of all individual timing components that comprise each path. Both the summary and detail formatted TIM reports show the performance of all timing constraints contained in the design.

Development System Reference Guide

www.xilinx.com

309

Page 309
Image 309
Xilinx 8.2i manual TAEngine Overview

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.