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Altera_Forum's avatar
Altera_Forum
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16 years ago

Modelsim -nodebug with megafunctions

I used the -nodebug option with vcom to compile some VHDL into encrypted RTL for simulation (to be distributed with an IP core product). However, I cannot use it to simulate my design since it instantiates Altera Megafunctions (ie. dcfifo). Modelsim-Altera complains Error: (vsim-3067) Debug module 'C:\altera\90\modelsim_ase\altera\vhdl\altera_mf.dcfifo(behavior)' called from nondebug module 'c:\*deleted*\sim.pst_altera_async_fifo_wrapper(struc)'.

Now this error is pretty self explanitory and I understand why it would stop short on simulating (so that internal signals are not shown). So my question is this: how am I supposed to generate protected (encrypted) precompiled code for RTL simulation if I rely on megafunction components for fifos, memory, and multipliers?

I would like to avoid just using obfuscated code (the alternative).

4 Replies

  • Altera_Forum's avatar
    Altera_Forum
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    *bump*

    So can anyone give me a solution for this problem or should be more accepting of code obfuscation as a security solution?

    EDIT: Perhaps, is there a way to recompile the Altera precompiled libraries so that they are also compiled with "-nodebug"?
  • Altera_Forum's avatar
    Altera_Forum
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    Thanks for the reply. I give that a try when I get my laptop back (its getting a new motherboard).

    The down side to this is that users will have to do a vcom -refresh with new major ModelSim versions. But, I guess they'll be doing it for my library anyway; what's one more?
  • Altera_Forum's avatar
    Altera_Forum
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    Thanks for the info. That worked. Sorry for the late reply and bump. Just thought I'd follow up in case someone else had the same question.