What problem does it solve?
This Skill eliminates the steep learning curve of Vivado's complex simulation ecosystem, helping you select the correct simulation stage for your verification goals, use xsim and third-party simulators properly, and quickly debug common simulation issues without sifting through lengthy official documentation.
Core Features & Use Cases
- Simulation Flow Selection: Clear guidance on when to use behavioral, post-synthesis, or post-implementation timing simulation for functional verification, synthesis correctness checks, or timing closure validation.
- xsim Command Reference: Complete syntax for the xvlog/xvhdl/xelab/xsim three-step flow, Vivado Project Mode launch_simulation commands, and interactive debug tools like add_force, add_wave, and breakpoints.
- Third-Party Simulator Integration: Step-by-step setup for Questa, ModelSim, VCS, Xcelium, Riviera-PRO, and Active-HDL using compile_simlib and export_simulation.
- Power Analysis Support: Guidance for collecting SAIF or VCD data during simulation to feed into Vivado's report_power workflow for accurate power estimation.
- Use Case: If your post-synthesis simulation produces mismatched results compared to RTL simulation, use this Skill to quickly identify whether the issue stems from synthesis errors, missing glbl.v files, or incorrect SDF annotation.
Quick Start
Use the vivado-sim skill to troubleshoot inconsistent results between your RTL behavioral simulation and post-synthesis netlist simulation, and get step-by-step guidance to isolate the root cause.