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SRiet's avatar
SRiet
Icon for New Contributor rankNew Contributor
6 years ago

Is it possible to precompile a custom IP project for re-use in several other projects?

Dear Community,

We developed a custom IP block which includes own vhdl code, quartus IP blocks and so on. The whole project on its own is a standalone version, meaning that it already has functionality without adding additional logic. It currently runs on a Cyclone V GX.

Since we're using this project in addition to other projects it would be nice to be able to precombile it. Since this project contains time-critical paths we don't want to recompile it every time it has been added to an other project. In our experience, the more occupied the area in the FPGA is the more likely are timing issues. In the end, we don't want the custom IP project to be affected by this time-area tradeoff.

It would be nice if you might throw me some keywords or strategies to avoid the above described issue.

Best,

Stefan

3 Replies

  • sstrell's avatar
    sstrell
    Icon for Super Contributor rankSuper Contributor
    6 years ago

    Set up a Logic Lock region for the IP to lock it to the area of the device where it is located and then use incremental compilation, setting the design as a design partition, to export the design as a .qxp file. You can then use that .qxp as a design file in any other project.

  • AnandRaj_S_Intel's avatar
    AnandRaj_S_Intel
    Icon for Regular Contributor rankRegular Contributor
    6 years ago

    Hi Stefan,

    Yes i agree sstrell, we can generate QXP file and use it in our design.

    Few points to consider.

    1. Parameterization is not possible after creating QXP .
    2. Also use of post-fit netlist while creating an QXP will restrict the placement and routing in targeted device.
    3. QXP files can be used within an entire device family.

    Regards

    Anand

  • SRiet's avatar
    SRiet
    Icon for New Contributor rankNew Contributor
    6 years ago

    Hi,

    Thank you for your answers and the hint with the .qxp files. I'll read the Intel documentation on these files and I'll may come back to you guys.

    Thanks again!

    Best,

    Stefan