Xilinx Tool Flow

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Static Timing Analysis

To evaluate timing closure on a design and create a timing report file (TWR) derived from static timing analysis of the physical design file (NCD), the trce command must be executed. The analysis is typically based on constraints included in the optional physical constraints file (PCF). An example of the trce command is provided below:

trce -e 10 routed.ncd mapped.pcf -o routed.twr

The trce command outputs a routed.twr file, which performs timing analysis of the placed and routed design based on the user constraints.

Timing Simulation

After the user design is functionally correct and meets all timing constraints, it is recommended the user perform back-annotated timing simulation to verify that the entire user design will function correctly before the user tests their design in hardware. The netgen command is used to generate a post-par simulation model, which includes all timing information. An example of the netgen command is provided below:

netgen -sim -ofmt <vhdl verilog> routed.ncd

The netgen command outputs routed.v[hd] and routed.sdf files, which allow the user to run timing simulation.

Generating a Bitstream

To create the configuration (BIT) file based on the contents of a physical implementation file (NCD), the bitgen command must be executed. The BIT file defines the behavior of the programmed FPGA. An example of the bitgen command is provided below:

bitgen -w routed.ncd

Note the user should take care in setting the required bitgen options, including selection of the startup clock. See the Development System Reference Guide for details.

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UG181 June 27, 2008

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Xilinx UG181 manual Static Timing Analysis, Generating a Bitstream, Xilinx Tool Flow
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UG181 specifications

Xilinx UG181 refers to the User Guide for the Xilinx 7 Series FPGAs, which offers a comprehensive overview of the architecture, capabilities, and features of these powerful field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). Designed to cater to a wide range of applications, Xilinx 7 Series FPGAs are widely adopted in industries such as telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics.

One of the main features of the Xilinx 7 Series FPGAs is their use of advanced 28nm technology, which enables them to achieve high performance while maintaining low power consumption. This fine process technology not only ensures better power efficiency but also allows for increased logic density. The 7 Series includes several families, such as Artix-7, Kintex-7, and Virtex-7, each tailored for specific application demands ranging from cost-sensitive solutions to high-performance data processing.

Xilinx 7 Series FPGAs also incorporate a rich set of programmable logic resources. This includes Look-Up Tables (LUTs), Flip-Flops, and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) slices that have been optimized for various arithmetic functions. With several thousands of logic cells available, designers can implement complex algorithms and systems directly in hardware for improved performance over traditional software solutions.

In addition to their logic capabilities, Xilinx 7 Series FPGAs feature an array of high-speed serial communication interfaces. These include support for technologies like PCI Express, Gigabit Ethernet, and Serial RapidIO, which facilitate efficient data transfer and integration into enterprise-level systems. The presence of high-speed transceivers also makes them ideal for applications that require fast data handling like video processing or high-frequency trading.

Furthermore, these FPGAs offer extensive memory options, including support for a wide range of external memory interfaces. This versatility allows for the integration of high-bandwidth memory solutions, which is essential for performance-intensive applications. With the introduction of the Memory Controller IP, users can easily connect various memory types, ensuring flexibility in system design.

Finally, Xilinx has made significant strides in development tools for 7 Series FPGAs, providing a robust ecosystem for design engineers. With design suites such as Vivado and SDK, users benefit from a comprehensive platform for deciding, simulating, and implementing designs efficiently. The combination of advanced hardware capabilities and powerful software tools solidifies the position of Xilinx 7 Series FPGAs as a preferred choice for custom digital hardware design across various industries.
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