Understanding Simulation Procedures

In most cases, you can use the command file generated during functional simulation to perform the timing simulation. If necessary, you can make minor adjustments to the command file used to functionally simulate the design before performing a timing simulation.

The typical procedure for performing a timing simulation follows.

1. Export an EDIF file with timing information.
   
   
2. Create the timing simulation network (VSM file).
   
   
3. Start ViewSim.
   
   
4. Load the VSM file into ViewSim.
   
   
5. Simulate the device's startup sequence.
   
   
6. Manually enter the simulation commands, which can be the same as those used during functional simulation. Otherwise, execute the command file generated during functional simulation.
   
   
7. Run a new command file (optional).
   
   
8. Start ViewTrace.
   
   
9. View the waveforms produced by the simulation.
   
   
10. Repeat steps 5, 6, and 8 as necessary to verify the timing information.
    
    

The rest of the chapter discusses these steps in detail.