Using the Xilinx Software

were generated in Simulink. Provided that your design was error free, the ModelSim console window will report that the simulation finished without errors.

Your installed version of ModelSim (either MXE or ModelSim EE/SE/PE) must be associated with the Project Navigator tool for this interaction to work. To associate ModelSim with the Project Navigator, follow the instructions in the Simulation section, later in this chapter.

Using an EDIF software flow

You may not wish to use the Project Navigator for your VHDL synthesis. If you choose to run a synthesis compiler in a standalone software tool, then you will generate EDIF. You may wish to import your EDIF files into the Project Navigator.

To do this, open the Project Navigator and select File >> New Project. A new project properties dialog will open. Select EDIF as the design flow type.

Figure 5-8: EDIF design flow in Project Navigator

Now you may add your EDIF files to the project as sources. From the Project Navigator pulldown menu bar, choose Project>>Add Source, and then browse to your EDIF files.

Simulation

The System Generator creates custom .do files for use with your generated project and a ModelSim simulator. To use these files, you must have ModelSim (PE or EE/SE) or the Xilinx Edition of ModelSim (MXE). You may run your simulations from the standalone ModelSim tool, or you may associate it with the Xilinx 4.1i ISE Project Navigator, and run your simulations from within Project Navigator as part of the full software implementation flow.

Compiling your IP

You must compile your IP (cores) libraries with ModelSim before you can simulate.

ModelSim (PE or EE/SE)

To compile your IP with ModelSim (PE or EE/SE) you will need to download a TCL/ TK script from the Xilinx web site, and run it to compile these libraries:

Xilinx Simprim

Unisim

XilinxCoreLib

Using an EDIF software flow

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Xilinx V2.1 manual Using an Edif software flow, Simulation, Compiling your IP, ModelSim PE or EE/SE
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V2.1 specifications

Xilinx V2.1 is a notable iteration in the series of versatile and robust Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) developed to cater to a wide range of applications. Launched to provide enhancements in performance and flexibility, V2.1 embodies sophisticated technologies and features that stand out in the electronics industry.

One of the primary features of Xilinx V2.1 is its improved processing power. The architecture has been optimized to support higher clock speeds and increased logic density, allowing for more complex designs to be implemented effectively. This boost in performance is facilitated by utilizing advanced silicon technologies, which significantly reduce power consumption while maximizing efficiency.

Another significant characteristic of Xilinx V2.1 is its enhanced I/O (Input/Output) capabilities. The device supports a variety of industry-standard interfaces, which include PCI Express, SATA, and various serial communication protocols. Such adaptability ensures seamless integration into existing systems, providing engineers with the flexibility to adapt to various application requirements without the need for substantial redesign efforts.

Xilinx V2.1 also features improved scalability, making it a prime choice for applications that demand diverse performance levels. This device supports an array of configurations and can be used in small-scale projects as well as in larger, more demanding environments requiring extensive resources. This scalability is further aided by support for multiple development platforms, enabling rapid prototyping and simplifying the design process.

Security is increasingly becoming a priority in digital design, and Xilinx V2.1 addresses this concern via hardware security features. It includes enhanced encryption protocols and secure boot functionalities, which help protect intellectual property and sensitive data from unauthorized access.

Additionally, the integration of advanced DSP (Digital Signal Processing) blocks allows Xilinx V2.1 to efficiently handle data-intensive tasks such as video processing and real-time signal analysis. These capabilities make it suitable for applications in telecommunications, automotive systems, and industrial automation.

Xilinx V2.1 also benefits from a rich development environment, including robust software tools that facilitate design entry, simulation, and verification. The support for industry-standard programming languages like VHDL and Verilog simplifies the development process, enabling engineers to design complex systems more efficiently.

In summary, Xilinx V2.1 stands out due to its impressive combination of high performance, flexibility, scalability, security, and comprehensive development support. These features make it a valuable asset for engineers and developers looking to innovate across various sectors, from telecommunications and automotive to industrial applications.
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