Chapter 23: XFLOW

R

–synth

–synthoption_file

Note: When using the –synth flow type, you must specify the –p option.

This flow type allows you to synthesize your design for implementation in an FPGA, for fitting in a CPLD, or for compiling for functional simulation. The input design file can be a Verilog or VHDL file.

You can use the -synth flow type alone or combine it with the -implement, -fit, or -fsim flow type. If you use the -synth flow type alone, XFLOW invokes either the fpga.flw or cpld.flw file and runs XST to synthesize your design. If you combine the -synth flow type with the -implement, -fit, or -fsim flow type, XFLOW invokes the appropriate flow file, runs XST to synthesize your design, and processes your design as described in one of the following sections:

“–implement (Implement an FPGA)”

“–fit (Fit a CPLD)”

“–fsim (Create a File for Functional Simulation)”

Synthesis Types

There are three different synthesis types that are described in the following sections.

XST

Use the following example to enter the XST command:

xflow -p xc2v250fg256-5-synth xst_vhdl.opt design_name.vhd

If you have multiple VHDL or Verilog files, you can use a PRJ file that references these files as input. Use the following example to enter the PRJ file:

xflow -p xc2v250fg256-5-synth xst_vhdl.opt design_name.prj

Leonardo Spectrum

Use the following example to enter the Leonardo Spectrum command:

xflow -p xc2v250fg256-5-synth leonardospectrum_vhdl.opt

design_name.vhd

If you have multiple VHDL files, you must list all of the source files in a text file, one per line and pass that information to XFLOW using the –g (Specify a Global Variable) option. Assume that the file that lists all source files is filelist.txt and design_name.vhd is the top level design. Use the following example:

xflow -p xc2v250fg256-5 -g srclist:filelist.txt -synth leonardospectrum_vhdl.opt design_name.vhd

The same rule applies for Verilog too.

Synplicity

Use the following example to enter the Synplicity command:

xflow -p xc2v250fg256-5-synth synplicity_vhdl.opt design_name.vhd

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Xilinx 8.2i manual Synthesis Types, Synthoptionfile

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.