R

NetGen Timing Simulation Flow

When you run this option, NetGen checks that your library path is set up properly.

Following is an example of the appropriate path:

$XILINX/verilog/src/simprim

If you are using compiled libraries, this switch offers no advantage. If you use this switch, do not use the –ul switch.

Note: The –ism option is valid for post-translate (NGD), post-map, and post-place and route simulation flows.

–ne (No Name Escaping)

By default (without the –ne option), NetGen “escapes” illegal block or net names in your design by placing a leading backslash (\) before the name and appending a space at the end of the name. For example, the net name “p1$40/empty” becomes “\p1$40/empty” when name escaping is used. Illegal Verilog characters are reserved Verilog names, such as “input” and “output,” and any characters that do not conform to Verilog naming standards.

The –ne option replaces invalid characters with underscores so that name escaping does not occur. For example, the net name “p1$40/empty” becomes “p1$40_empty” when name escaping is not used. The leading backslash does not appear as part of the identifier. The resulting Verilog file can be used if a vendor’s Verilog software cannot interpret escaped identifiers correctly.

–pf (Generate PIN File)

The –pf option writes out a pin file—a Cadence signal-to-pin mapping file with a .pin extension.

Note: NetGen only generates a PIN file if the input is an NGM file.

–sdf_anno (Include $sdf_annotate)

-sdf_anno [truefalse]

The –sdf_anno option controls the inclusion of the $sdf_annotate construct in a Verilog netlist. The default for this option is true. To disable this option, use false.

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

–sdf_path (Full Path to SDF File)

-sdf_path [path_name]

The –sdf_path option outputs the SDF file to the specified full path. This option writes the full path and the SDF file name to the $sdf_annotate statement. If a full path is not specified, it writes the full path of the current work directory and the SDF file name to the $sdf_annotate statement.

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

–shm (Write $shm Statements in Test Fixture File)

The -shm option places $shm statements in the structural Verilog file created by NetGen. These $shm statements allow NC-Verilog to display simulation data as waveforms. This option is for use with Cadence NC-Verilog files only.

Development System Reference Guide

www.xilinx.com

327

Page 327
Image 327
Xilinx 8.2i manual Ne No Name Escaping, Pf Generate PIN File, Sdfanno Include $sdfannotate, Sdfpath Full Path to SDF File

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.