ModelSim explained

ModelSim is a multi-language environment by Siemens^[1] (previously developed by Mentor Graphics,) for simulation of hardware description languages such as VHDL, Verilog and SystemC, and includes a built-in C debugger.^[2] ModelSim can be used independently, or in conjunction with Intel Quartus Prime, PSIM,^[3] Xilinx ISE or Xilinx Vivado.^[4] Simulation is performed using the graphical user interface (GUI), or automatically using scripts.^[5]

Editions

Mentor HDL simulation products are offered in multiple editions, such as ModelSim PE and Questa Sim.

Questa Sim offers high-performance and advanced debugging capabilities, while ModelSim PE is the entry-level simulator for hobbyists and students.^[6] Questa Sim is used in large multi-million gate designs, and is supported on Microsoft Windows and Linux, in 32-bit and 64-bit architectures.^[6]

ModelSim can also be used with MATLAB/Simulink, using Link for ModelSim.^{[7] [8]} Link for ModelSim is a fast bidirectional co-simulation interface between Simulink and ModelSim.^{[8] [7]} For such designs, MATLAB provides a numerical simulation toolset, while ModelSim provides tools to verify the hardware implementation & timing characteristics of the design.^[8]

Language support

ModelSim uses a unified kernel for simulation of all supported languages, and the method of debugging embedded C code is the same as VHDL or Verilog.^[6]

ModelSim and Questa Sim products enable simulation, verification and debugging for the following languages:^[6]

• VHDL
• Verilog
• Verilog 2001
• SystemVerilog
• PSL
• SystemC

See also

• Intel Quartus Prime
• Icarus Verilog
• List of HDL simulators
• NCSim
• Verilator
• Xilinx ISE
• Xilinx Vivado

Notes and References

1. Web site: ModelSim .
2. https://books.google.com/books?id=F-mTrH1NB4UC&dq=ModelSim&pg=PA97 Reconfigurable Embedded Control Systems
3. Web site: PSIM ModCoupler: VHDL & Verilog with Modelsim. 2021-06-01. Powersim, Inc. en-US.
4. https://books.google.com/books?id=wUALmyy9YUcC&dq=ModelSim&pg=PA41 Digital Hardware Design
5. https://books.google.com/books?id=ljLBBAAAQBAJ&dq=ModelSim&pg=PA17 Synthesizable VHDL Design for FPGAs
6. https://books.google.com/books?id=Eqgrqktkk1YC&dq=ModelSim&pg=PA606 Handbook of Digital Techniques for High-Speed Design
7. https://books.google.com/books?id=cnkYRKhUwyEC&dq=ModelSim&pg=PA849 Industrial Control Technology
8. https://books.google.com/books?id=pJSqZZmc9_oC&dq=ModelSim&pg=PA168 Recent Advances in Modeling and Simulation Tools for Communication Networks and Services