Xilinx 8.2i manual NetGen Static Timing Analysis Flow, Ngm Design Correlation File

Models: 8.2i

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NetGen Static Timing Analysis Flow

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.

–ngm (Design Correlation File)

–ngm[ngm_file]

The -ngm option is used to specify an NGM design correlation file. This option is used for equivalence checking flows.

–tm (Top Module Name)

–tmtop_module_name

By default (without the –tm option), the output files inherit the top module name from the input NCD or NGM file. The –tm option changes the name of the top-level module name appearing within the NetGen output files.

–w (Overwrite Existing Files)

The –w option causes NetGen to overwrite the .v file if it exists. By default, NetGen does not overwrite the netlist file.

Note: All other output files are automatically overwritten.

NetGen Static Timing Analysis Flow

This section describes the NetGen Static Timing Analysis flow, which is used for analyzing the timing, including minimum of maximum delay values, of FPGA designs.

Minimum of maximum delays are used by static timing analysis tools to calculate skew, setup and hold values. Minimum of maximum delays are the minimum delay values of a device under a specified operating condition (speed grade, temperature and voltage). If the operating temperature and voltage are not specified, then the worst case temperature and voltage values are used. Note that the minimum of maximum delay value is different from the process minimum generated by using the –s min option.

The following example shows DELAY properties containing relative minimum and maximum delays.

Note: Both the TYP and MAX fields contain the maximum delay.

(DELAY)

(ABSOLUTE)

(PORT I (234:292:292) (234:292:292))

(IOPATH I O (392:489:489) (392:489:489))

Note: Timing simulation does not contain any relative delay information, instead the MIN, TYP, and MAX fields are all equal.

NetGen uses the Static Timing Analysis flow to generate Verilog and SDF netlists compatible with supported static timing analysis tools.

Development System Reference Guide

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Xilinx 8.2i manual NetGen Static Timing Analysis Flow, Ngm Design Correlation 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.