1.     Welcome

Welcome to blockHDL!  This document provides information for using blockHDL for Sun SPARC^Ò,  HP 9000/700 and IBM RS/6000 workstations.  blockHDL was developed to enable designers to use high-level block diagrams to structure and functionally partition systems into their constituent components.  Internal behavioral descriptions of the blocks can be created using VHDL or Verilog HDL code or flowdiagrams created in flowHDL.  blockHDL translates completed block diagrams to HDL code targeted for your simulation or synthesis tool of choice.

blockHDL's correct-by-construction design catches mundane errors, freeing you to concentrate on the higher level aspects of your design.  By providing a design platform that can directly translate your design into HDL output code, blockHDL cuts out the time-consuming step of entering code into the test environment manually.  blockHDL increases productivity by reducing the time it takes to move from initial specifications to testable designs.  

This chapter provides tips on getting started in blockHDL.  This includes information on executing blockHDL and a description of concepts integral to block diagram methodology.

1.1     Installing blockHDL

blockHDL is distributed as part of the Knowledge Based Silicon installation media.  If you are installing flowHDL along with blockHDL, blockHDL installation is handled automatically.  To install blockHDL separately:

1.        Insert the installation media provided with this manual.  If installing from floppy disk, insert Disk 1.

2.        Make a directory for the blockHDL application by typing: mkdir blockhdl at the prompt. 

3.        Change the directory by typing cd blockhdl at the prompt.

4.        Installation procedures vary between operating environments.  Type the command and device name for your operating system provided in Table 1-1.