Synopsys Design Compiler Tutorial 2021 __link__ May 2026

Synopsys Design Compiler (DC) is the core tool used in digital IC design to transform high-level RTL code (Verilog or VHDL) into a technology-specific gate-level netlist . In 2021, Synopsys continued to promote Design Compiler NXT

Library paths (Example for 90nm)

set tech_lib /proj/tech_libs/90nm/typical set target_library $tech_lib/ss_0.9v_125c.db set link_library [list * $target_library $tech_lib/memory_compiler.db] set symbol_library $tech_lib/symbols.sdb synopsys design compiler tutorial 2021

In 2021, most designs use Design Compiler Graphical or Topographical mode. This mode uses physical data (like floorplan info) to predict wire delays more accurately than the old "Wire Load Models." Synopsys Design Compiler (DC) is the core tool

C. Using compile_ultra (requires Ultra license)

set_host_options -max_cores 8
compile_ultra -timing -retime

Chapter 1: Environment Setup and Invocation

Before launching Design Compiler, the environment must be configured correctly. This involves pointing the tool to the technology libraries (standard cell libraries) and setting up the license. Chapter 1: Environment Setup and Invocation Before launching

  1. The current working directory.
  2. The user’s home directory.
  3. The Synopsys installation directory.
# Link resolves all instance references to library cells
link

The standard synthesis process in Design Compiler follows four primary stages: Synopsys Tutorial: Using the Design Compiler - s2.SMU

# Elaborate the top module
elaborate my_top_module