Xflow Overview

Chapter 23

XFLOW

XFLOW is compatible with the following families:

•Virtex™, Virtex™-E

•Virtex™-II

•Virtex™-II Pro, Virtex™-II Pro X

•Virtex™-4

•Virtex™-5 LX

•Spartan™-II, Spartan™-IIE

•Spartan™-3, Spartan™-3E, Spartan™-3L

•CoolRunner™ XPLA3, CoolRunner™-II

•XC9500™, XC9500XL™, XC9500XV™

This chapter describes the XFLOW program, a scripting tool that allows you to automate implementation, simulation, and synthesis flows using Xilinx programs. It contains the following sections:

•“XFLOW Overview”

•“XFLOW Input Files”

•“XFLOW Output Files”

•“XFLOW Flow Types”

•“XFLOW Option Files”

•“XFLOW Options”

•“Running XFLOW”

XFLOW is a command line program that automates Xilinx synthesis, implementation, and simulation flows. XFLOW reads a design file as input as well as a flow file and an option file. Xilinx provides a default set of flow files that automate which Xilinx programs are run to achieve a specific design flow. For example, a flow file can specify that NGDBuild, MAP, PAR, and TRACE are run to achieve an implementation flow for an FPGA. You can use the default set of flow files as is, or you can customize them. See “XFLOW Flow Types” and “Flow Files” for more information. Option files specify which command line options are run for each of the programs listed in the flow file. You can use the default set of option files provided by Xilinx, or you can create your own option files. See “XFLOW Options” for more information.

Development System Reference Guide

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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.

Xilinx 8.2i manual Xflow Overview

Models: 8.2i

XFLOW

XFLOW Overview

8.2i specifications