Logic Simulation Using SystemC Models - 2021.2 English

Versal ACAP System Integration and Validation Methodology Guide (UG1388)

Document ID
UG1388
Release Date
2021-11-19
Version
2021.2 English

SystemC is a C++ library that enables hardware modeling. This library provides structural elements, such as modules, ports, and interfaces, as well as data types. In addition to cycle-accurate simulation models, Xilinx provides fast, transaction-accurate, SystemC simulation models for some Versal ACAP infrastructure blocks for use in Vitis hardware emulation flows. SystemC models allow faster simulation compared to RTL models, which helps to reduce overall simulation time.

In general, SystemC models are used for performance analysis, architecture exploration, DMA synchronization, and address trace generation and performance modeling. However, Xilinx recommends using RTL models when accuracy and debugging are more important, such as with DMA transaction or timing dependent issues.

Table 1. Supported Simulation Models for Versal ACAP Blocks
Block Cycle Accurate Performance
PS

QEMU (functional only)

QEMU (functional only)

CIPS Verification IP (VIP)

NoC Behavioral SystemVerilog (cycle approximate) SystemC
DDRMC Behavioral SystemVerilog SystemC
PL-based soft memory controller Behavioral SystemVerilog Behavioral SystemVerilog
GT Behavioral SecureIP File I/O (for Vitis software platform users only)
GT-based IP Behavioral SecureIP AXI verification IP

File I/O (for Vitis software platform users only)

HLS-based IP RTL RTL
Other IP Varies by IP Varies by IP
PL Behavioral Verilog

VHDL

SystemVerilog

Behavioral Verilog

VHDL

SystemVerilog

AI Engine SystemC SystemC