In-Circuit Verification, Probe

Chapter 2: Design Flow

In-Circuit Verification

As a final test, you can verify how your design performs in the target application. In-circuit verification tests the circuit under typical operating conditions. Because you can program your Xilinx devices repeatedly, you can easily load different iterations of your design into your device and test it in-circuit. To verify your design in-circuit, download your design bitstream into a device with the Parallel Cable IV or MultiPRO cable.

Note: For information about Xilinx cables and hardware, see the iMPACT online help.

Design Rule Checker (FPGAs Only)

Before generating the final bitstream, it is important to use the DRC option in BitGen to evaluate the NCD file for problems that could prevent the design from functioning properly. DRC is invoked automatically unless you use the –d option. See Chapter 8, “Physical Design Rule Check” and Chapter 14, “BitGen” and for detailed information.

Xilinx Design Download Cables

Xilinx provides the Parallel Cable IV or MultiPRO cable to download the configuration data containing the device design.

You can use the Xilinx download cables with the iMPACT Programming software for FPGA and CPLD design download and readback, and configuration data verification. The iMPACT Programming software cannot be used to perform real-time design functional verification.

Probe

The Xilinx PROBE function in FPGA Editor provides real-time debug capability good for analyzing a few signals at a time. Using PROBE a designer can quickly identify and route any internal signals to available I/O pins without having to replace and route the design. The real-time activity of the signal can then be monitored using normal lab test equipment such as logic/state analyzers and oscilloscopes.

ChipScope ILA and ChipScope PRO

The ChipScope toolset was developed to assist engineers working at the PCB level. ChipScope ILA actually embeds logic analyzer cores into your design. These logic cores allow the user to view all the internal signals and nodes within an FPGA. ChipScope ILA supports user selectable data channels from 1 to 256. The depth of the sample buffer ranges from 256 to 16384 in Virtex-II devices. Triggers are changeable in real-0time without affecting the user logic or requiring recompilation of the user design.

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Development System Reference Guide

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 In-Circuit Verification, Design Rule Checker FPGAs Only, Probe

Models: 8.2i