This tutorial provides a condensed guide to using the Synopsys Design Compiler (DC) for RTL synthesis, based on standard workflows and features relevant to the 2021 period, including newer NXT technologies. 1. Introduction to Design Compiler
Design Compiler is the industry-standard RTL synthesis solution. It transforms Register Transfer Level (RTL) code (Verilog or VHDL) into an optimized gate-level netlist by mapping the design to a specific standard cell library. Key 2021+ Features:
Design Compiler NXT: Offers 2X faster runtime, improved power (up to 12% lower), and "cloud-ready" automated flows.
Topographical Technology: Predicts timing and area within 10% of post-layout results, reducing iterations between synthesis and physical design.
Multicore Scaling: Optimized for quad-core and multicore servers for faster synthesis. 2. Environment Setup synopsys design compiler tutorial 2021
Before launching the tool, you must configure your environment and setup files.
Project Directory: Create a dedicated directory for your synthesis run to house log files and reports.
Setup File (.synopsys_dc.setup): This critical file tells DC where to find libraries. Key variables include: search_path: Directories for RTL and libraries.
target_library: The .db files from your foundry (e.g., 65nm, 14nm) used for mapping. This tutorial provides a condensed guide to using
link_library: Libraries used to resolve references (usually includes the target library and any RAMs/IP).
symbol_library: Used for graphical schematic viewing (.sdb files). 3. The Synthesis Workflow
Synthesis follows four primary stages: Analyze & Elaborate, Apply Constraints, Optimization, and Reporting. Step 1: Analyze & Elaborate
Design Compiler: Timing, Area, Power, & Test Optimization | Synopsys Part 4: Constraining the Design – The 2021
Here’s a balanced review of a typical “Synopsys Design Compiler Tutorial 2021” (assuming a standard university or online technical tutorial based on the 2021 version):
Constraints are the most critical part. Without them, DC will build a slow, enormous chip. In 2021, we use the Synopsys Design Constraints (SDC) format.
report_timing > reports/$my_design.timing report_area > reports/$my_design.area
write_sdc ./results/top.sdc
Never exit without saving these three artifacts.
# 1. The Database (for ICC2 or Fusion Compiler)
write -format ddc -hierarchy -output $db_dir/$DESIGN_NAME_final.ddc