netlist from VHDL code
 

Hi,

I am trying to simulate a cache compressor with some 8k data lines. I
mean 8k lines are the input from L1 cache to the compressor. The
compressor send the compressed output to the L2 cache or main memory.
In this simulation I don't even want to verify the functionality - as
an function(algorithm choosen for this compressor) can be implemented
in a circuit form. I would like to find out the critical path of the
circuit.

Now my problem is since the circuit is too big(too many data lines),
I don't want to draw the schematic. So Can I write the VHDL code for
the circuit and get a netlist from the code. If I can do that, then I
can run the pathmill to find the critical path of the circuit and so as
the max. delay.

Pls let me know if you guys have any suggestions.

Thanks

Re: netlist from VHDL code
 

Ruby wrote:

> Now my problem is since the circuit is too big(too many data lines),
> I don't want to draw the schematic.

I wouldn't either.

> So Can I write the VHDL code for
> the circuit

Yes. And a testbench for it to
eliminate logical errors.

> and get a netlist from the code. If I can do that, then I
> can run the pathmill to find the critical path of the circuit and so as
> the max. delay.

Yes, a static timing analysis is the easiest way
to find the critical paths.

-- Mike Treseler.

Re: netlist from VHDL code
 

> > So Can I write the VHDL code for
> > the circuit
>
Yes. And a testbench for it to
eliminate logical errors.

What is the testbench and how to write it, Could you please mention in
more detail.
>
> > and get a netlist from the code. If I can do that, then I
> > can run the pathmill to find the critical path of the circuit and so as
> > the max. delay.
>
> Yes, a static timing analysis is the easiest way
> to find the critical paths.

I guess to get nelist, vhdl code should be structural. Could you pls
tell me, do the code have to be synthesizable code. I am not sure how
to get the netlist out of vhdl code. Could you give me some pointer in
that direction.

Thanks

Re: netlist from VHDL code
 

Ruby wrote:

> What is the testbench and how to write it, Could you please mention in
> more detail.

You need a vhdl tutorial, a book and a simulator to get started.
Google this group for details. Do some research of your own.

> I guess to get nelist, vhdl code should be structural.

No. You need synthesis software.
You need to learn to write and test
vhdl code for synthesis.
Here is an example:
http://home.comcast.net/%7Emike_treseler/uart.vhd

And a testbench:
http://home.comcast.net/%7Emike_treseler/test_uart.vhd

Good luck.

-- Mike Treseler