Description

Solution

In general, the ChipScope IBERT core is designed to meet timing out of the box. Since this is a less than ideal world, some designs may have difficulties meeting timing. This answer record will list some techniques that can be used to help meet timing with the IBERT core.

Change the data width of the IBERT core

Using a larger internal data width will relax timing inside the core.This is a quick and simple test that can be run that will help increase the chances that the IBERT core will meet timing

Reduce the number GT transceivers used in the IBERT design

As you add transceivers in a design, this increases the complexity of the design and makes it more and more difficult to meet timing in the IBERT core.Since IBERT is a tool that is used for testing purposes, having all GTs enabled on the device is not always necessary.This is another option that can help the IBERT core meet timing.

Run SmartXplorer on the IBERT core

This will require that you uncheck the box next to "Generate Bitstream" when you create the IBERT core.The SmartXplorer tool will allow you to run through the implementation tools with different sets of options simultaneously. More specifically, it will allow you to run through MAP with different cost tables. Use SmartXplorer to run the IBERT core through MAP using the first 10 different cost tables (-t command line option). For more information on how to use the SmartXplorer tool, see the Timing Closure User Guide (UG612).

If the ChipScope IBERT core still will not meet timing after trying the above tests, please open up a webcase with Xilinx Technical Support at:
http://www.xilinx.com/support/clearexpress/websupport.htm.

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