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NetGen Timing Simulation Flow

–ofmt (Output Format)

-ofmtverilogvhdl

The –ofmt option is a required option that specifies output format of either Verilog or

VHDL netlists.

–pcf (PCF File)

-pcf pcf_file.pcf

The –pcf option allows you to specify a PCF (physical constraints file) as input to NetGen. You only need to specify a physical constraints file if prorating constraints (temperature and/or voltage) are used.

Temperature and voltage constraints and prorated delays are described in the Constraints Guide.

Note: The –pcfoption is valid for the timing simulation flow.

–s (Change Speed)

-s[speed grade]

The –s option instructs NetGen to annotate the device speed grade you specify to the netlist. The device speed can be entered with or without the leading dash. For example, both –s 3 and –s –3 are allowable entries.

Some architectures support the –s min option. This option instructs NetGen to annotate a process minimum delay, rather than a maximum worst-case to the netlist. The command line syntax is the following.

-s min

Minimum delay values may not be available for all families. Use the Speedprint or PARTGen utility programs in the software to determine whether process minimum delays are available for your target architecture. See Chapter 4, “PARTGen” and Chapter 13, “Speedprint” for additional information.

Settings made with the –s min option override any prorated timing parameters in the PCF. If –s min is used then all fields (MIN:TYP:MAX) in the resulting SDF file are set to the process minimum value.

Note: The –s option is valid for the timing simulation flow.

–sim (Generate Simulation Netlist)

The -sim option writes a simulation netlist. This is the default option for NetGen, and the default option for NetGen for generating a simulation netlist.

–tb (Generate Testbench Template File)

The –tb option generates a testbench file with a .tb extension. It is a ready-to-use Verilog or VHDL template file, based on the input NCD file. The type of template file (Verilog or VHDL) is specified with the –ofmt option.

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Xilinx 8.2i manual Ofmt Output Format, Pcf PCF File, Change Speed, Sim Generate Simulation Netlist

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.