Answers Database

Foundation Simulator: 'Invalid chip descriptor' error while loading netlist


Record #1132

Product Family:  Software

Product Line:  Aldec

Problem Title:
Foundation Simulator: 'Invalid chip descriptor' error while loading
netlist



Problem Description:
While loading a netlist for functional simulation, the
following error appears in the Foundation Project Manager:

SIM : Invalid chip descriptor


Solution 1:

This error is issued when the netlist for one of the macros
is corrupted.

Look in the Foundation Project Manager to determine which
macro was being loaded when the error was issued.  Open this
macro in the Schematic Editor and make a minor change (for
example, move an I/O terminal).  Save the macro and
regenerate the netlist by selecting Options -> Create
Netlist.



Solution 2:

Symbols with pins of type PAS (passive) may cause this error.

In the Symbol Editor, make sure that all symbol pins are of
type IN, OUT, or HIZ (tristate).



Solution 3:

One possible cause of this error is if a user-created symbol
is of type "FPGA Symbol".  This symbol type is only for use
in board-level simulations.

Open the symbol in the Symbol Editor.  Uncheck the box in the
upper right labeled "FPGA Symbol".



End of Record #1132