An Open Source Repository for Sharing Tcl Scripts

Xilinx is taking another large step forward in designer productivity by hosting an open-source repository for sharing Tool Command Language (Tcl) scripts. The Xilinx Tcl Store makes it easy to find and share Tcl scripts contributed by the development community. With the power of Tcl, these scripts extend the core functionality of the Vivado Design Suite, further enhancing productivity and ease of use. All of the Tcl code published in the repository  is free and redistributable under a BSD based open source license model.

Here are some of the key benefits of Tcl that code in the repository will help you achieve:

• Develop & scrub timing constraints interactively
• Save compilation time and debug effort
• Create custom reports and queries
• Develop DRC and linting checks
• Integrate Vivado with other tools

The Xilinx Tcl store is accessed directly from the Vivado Integrated Design Environment (IDE), enabling users to select and install collections of Tcl scripts called apps. Once installed, these apps appear like built-in Vivado commands, right down to the help infrastructure. Vivado supports different versions of apps using standard package facilities of Tcl, so if a newer version is released the user can choose to upgrade with a single mouse click.

The Xilinx Tcl Store is intended to make it easier to find and use well-crafted Tcl scripts developed and supported by the user community, much like Linux. Tcl scripting is a little more advanced than selecting IDE buttons. However, it is easy to learn. Documentation and user guides provide details on specific commands from the Tcl API and can be found on www.xilinx.com/support

Take the Next Step

To access Tcl Scripts via the Vivado Integrated Design Environment

• Click the Tcl Store icon on the Getting Started page or Access via the Tools Menu
• Choose your apps and install

To contribute to the Tcl Store

• The first step is to register for a GitHub® account. Once you have created an account you can contribute in one of two ways:
  
  • Modify an existing script or submit a request for a new script.
  • The Xilinx Tcl Store Wiki explains the contribution process in greater detail.

Let’s take a closer look at the infrastructure for installing and using Tcl apps from the Xilinx Tcl Store. Click here to watch the Introduction to the Xilinx Tcl Store QuickTake Video.