Synopsys Design Compiler Tutorial 2021 _hot_ May 2026

Synopsys Design Compiler (DC) converts high-level RTL (Verilog/VHDL) into optimized gate-level netlists, utilizing Topographical Mode for accurate, pre-layout timing and area estimation. The synthesis flow involves setting up technology libraries, applying Synopsys Design Constraints (SDC), compiling for optimization, and verifying with timing and power reports. For a detailed tutorial on the synthesis process, see this guide. Design Compiler: Timing, Area, Power, & Test Optimization

Create clock (100 MHz -> 10ns period)

create_clock -name clk -period 10.0 [get_ports clk] synopsys design compiler tutorial 2021

👥 Who is this for?

• Digital design students – Great for university synthesis labs.
• Entry-level ASIC engineers – Builds confidence in writing synthesis constraints.
• FPGA engineers transitioning to ASIC – Highlights differences from vendor FPGA tools.

Synopsys Design Compiler Tutorial (2021)

Version: DC Professional (2021.09-SP3 or later) Objective: Synthesize an RTL design (Verilog/VHDL) to a gate-level netlist using a 32nm/28nm library. Digital design students – Great for university synthesis

Exit gracefully

exit

2. The Verilog Netlist (for simulation)

write -format verilog -hierarchy -output $db_dir/$DESIGN_NAME_netlist.v utilizing Topographical Mode for accurate

Transition (slew rate on the clock tree)

set_clock_transition -max 0.080 [get_clocks core_clk]