13.28 Entering Constraints

You can enter design constraints in the following ways:

  • Importing constraint files: You can import GCF, PDC, SDC, DCF, or PIN constraint files. The type of file you use depends on which type of device you are designing.
    • GCF (ProASIC and ProASICPLUS families)
    • PDC (IGLOO, ProASIC3, SmartFusion, Fusion, and Axcelerator families)
    • SDC (IGLOO, ProASIC3, SmartFusion, Fusion, Axcelerator, RTAX-S, eX, and SX-A families)
    • DCF (earlier Antifuse families such as eX, SX-A, and SX)
    • PIN (only valid for earlier Antifuse families such as eX, SX-A, and SX)
  • Using constraint editor tools: Designer's constraint editors are graphical user interface (GUI) tools for creating and modifying physical, logical, and timing constraints. Using these tools enables you to enter constraints without having to understand GCF, PDC, or other file syntax. Which constraint editor you use depends on which type of device you are designing.

    For IGLOO, ProASIC3, SmartFusion, Fusion, ProASICPLUS, ProASIC, and Axcelerator, use the tools within the MultiView Navigator:

    • ChipPlanner - Sets location and region assignments
    • PinEditor in MVN - Sets the pin location constraints
    • I/O Attribute Editor - Sets I/O attributes
    • SmartTime Constraints Editor - Enables you to view and edit timing constraints

      For all other families, you will use the following tools:

    • ChipEditor - Sets location and region assignments
    • PinEditor (non MVN)- Sets I/O attributes and pin location constraints
    • Timer - Sets timing constraints