Chapter 3: Tcl

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The Xilinx Tcl command language also supports more advanced scripting techniques. Xilinx Tcl commands provide support for collections and objects that allow advanced users to write scripts that query the design and implementation, and then to take appropriate actions based on the results. “Tcl Commands for Advanced Scripting” are described in more detail later in the this chapter.

Tcl commands are accessed from the Xilinx Tcl Shell (xtclsh), which is available from the command line, or from the Tcl Console tab in Project Navigator. Xilinx Tcl commands are categorized in two ways: general usage and advanced scripting. See the “Xilinx Tcl Commands” section of this chapter for a detailed listing that includes a description, syntax, an example, and the Tcl return for each command.

Xilinx Tcl Shell

To access the Xilinx Tcl Shell (xtclsh) from Project Navigator, click the Tcl Console tab, which displays a window with the xtclsh prompt (%).

To access the xtclsh from the command line, type xtclsh from the command prompt to return the xtclsh prompt (%). Example:

>xtclsh

%

Command line syntax is based on the Tcl command and corresponding subcommand that you enter. For example:

%<tcl_command> <subcommand> <optional_arguments>

tcl_command is the name of the Xilinx Tcl command.

subcommand is the subcommand name for the Xilinx Tcl command.

optional_arguments are the arguments specific to each subcommand. Example syntax for all Xilinx Tcl commands, subcommands, and their respective arguments is included in the “Tcl Commands for General Usage” and “Tcl Commands for Advanced Scripting” sections of this chapter.

Accessing Help

Use the help command to get detailed information on Xilinx-specific Tcl commands. From the xtclsh prompt (%), type help for a list and brief description of Xilinx Tcl commands. For help on a specific Tcl command, type the following:

%help <tcl_command>

You can also get information on a specific subcommand by typing the subcommand name after the Tcl command. For example, type the following to get help on creating a new ISE project:

% help project new

help is the command that calls the Tcl help information.

project specifies the name of the Xilinx Tcl command.

new specifies the name of the project subcommand you wish to obtain help information on.

In Project Navigator, Tcl help is accessed from the Tcl Console tab using the same syntax as described above.

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Development System Reference Guide

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Xilinx 8.2i manual Xilinx Tcl Shell, Accessing Help
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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.
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