PCB Design Analysis Software Guidelines

RADIOING.com - eEngineer

HyperLynx Input/Output File Types

 

 

The following is a summary of the HyperLynx HyperSuite, version 6.1 file types and extensions.  This information is useful for determining the compatibility of HyperLynx I/O file formats with other software package applications as well as for the maximum utilization of resident file types. 

 

1. HyperLynx BoardSim reads .HYP (HyperLynx format) ASCII files.  The .HYP file contains Printed Circuit Board (PCB) layout information that is relevant to signal integrity analysis.

 

2. BoardSim automatically creates a .PJH file, a project file named after the board, schematic, or multiple board project.

 

3. HyperLynx supports IBIS 3.2 Models in both LineSim and BoardSim. The extension is .IBS.  Many of the IBIS features required for the latest microprocessors and other advanced ICs are supported, including: Driver Schedule, Bus Hold, Dynamic Clamp and Electrical Board Description (.EBD).  EBD is a high-quality simulation model for modules and other small boards without revealing physical details. Models may also be created from a .HYP file. 

 

4. Databook (.MOD) format - this is a HyperLynx (now part of Innoveda) proprietary format, based on "databook" parameters.  HyperSuite EXT includes a form-based dialog box that generates .MOD models from data-sheet parameters. MOD models are non-linear and include curve shaping and diode effects.  MOD models usually sacrifice little in accuracy compared to IBIS models and are easier to create.  These models usually represent an entire family of ICs. For example, the 74ACXX: GATE model in GENERIC.MOD represents the output of any non-line-driver 74AC IC.

 

5. Package-model library (.PML) format is an extension of the .MOD format and adds package parasitics and component - specific pinouts.  Innoveda supplies more than 5000 models in .PML format.  Automatic updating of the Model Finder database allows database customization

to include models not shipped in the HyperLynx product library (e.g., models obtained from a semiconductor vendor).

 

6. Back annotate changes can be made in BoardSim to Innoveda's PowerPCB, PowerLogic, and ViewDraw products. BoardSim can back annotate design changes, including passive component values, IC models assigned by the .REF IC AutoMapping file, and Quick Terminators (new virtual components). The design changes are written to an ASCII ECO file formatted for PowerPCB, PowerLogic, or ViewDraw.  BoardSim can also dynamically back annotate the changes to a running copy of PowerPCB or PowerLogic (the changes appear in the target products almost immediately after back annotation completes).

 

7. The .QPL (qualified parts list) IC AutoMapping file feature saves considerable time on devices that are used across multiple designs.  A single model mapping can apply to all of the .HYP files that are being used.  The .QPL IC AutoMapping file maps the corporate part names to IC models.  In contrast, the .REF IC AutoMapping file maps board-specific reference designators to models. The .QPL file can be used with a .REF file, or by itself.  It is also possible to have multiple .QPL files.

 

8. LineSim and BoardSim have an option to write SPICE netlists (including coupling data), so that you can conveniently export to SPICE and simulate in it.  SPICE Writer, available as an option in LineSim and in BoardSim, automatically generates a SPICE-netlist output file containing a complete description of a schematic (LineSim) or selected net (BoardSim), using SPICE transmission-line elements. This output file also contains the passive components for the selected net, and comment lines listing the drivers and receivers, for which the user can then provide SPICE models.  The output file from SPICE Writer is created as a SPICE sub circuit. The output for an uncoupled net is generated using standard SPICE "T" elements for transmission lines, and should be compatible with most SPICE simulators. The output for coupled nets is formatted specifically for Hspice, since there is no industry-standard format for coupled nets; it uses the Hspice "W" element.

 

9. BoardSim supports the following PCB-layout tools (this list is subject to change):  Accel EDA / P-CAD, Cadence Allegro, Mentor BoardStation and Veribest, Innoveda PowerPCB,  (formerly PADS), Zuken CR-3000 / 5000, and Zuken-Redac Visula / Cadstar for Windows.  Translators for Protel Advanced PCB and OrCAD Layout were included as menu selections from these layout tools.

 

10. The Board Wizard has two types of files for analysis results to be used in other programs:

 

a.  .CSV ("Comma Separated Values") file - contains all of the report's net-by-net data that can be read directly into Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet/database programs.  For example, export of oscilloscope waveforms may be done in .CSV format to other programs like Microsoft Excel, other spreadsheets, or mathematics software (e.g., Mathcad).

 

b.  .SDF ("Standard Delay Format") file - contains the pin-delay information in the report file that can be read into Verilog and VHDL simulators, or other timing-analysis tools.


Line

RADIOING.com -- eEngineer

BACK