Introducing Netlisp

Netlisp is a data manipulation tool based upon a dialect of Lisp, namely Scheme. The tool specifically targets electronic design netlists representing schematics, structural hierarchy and physical implementation (layout).

Netlisp utilizes an industry standard programming language to process the design data represented in an industry standard format. Translation between this standardized format and other formats can be supported either as a Netlisp module or by existing tool suites.

Depending upon the type of input, output, and amount of intervening processing performed on the standardized format, there are several classes of applications:

Translators
Design data is converted with little or no manipulation from one format to another. An example would be to translate from one version of SPICE to another. In this case, the original netlist would first be translated into the standard format, then translated again into the output SPICE format.
Transformers
Similar to translators but involving noticeable manipulation of the data while in the standard format. The need for manipulation arises often. Some common uses include:
Analyzers
Design data in the standard format is examined and a report is generated detailing the requested information. For instance, the design hierarchy can be displayed or a list of top level cells obtained.
Generators
Design data is produced under script control processing input command and data files. Examples include the generation of ROM layout and schematics based upon template files and custom ROM code.

Over time an organization can develop a large amount of IP implementing these common applications. By implementing them in an industry standard language manipulating an industry standard format, the applications become format independent. This allows the IP to quickly accommodate changes in the design tool flow.

These classes are quite simplistic and are simply intended to give further insight into the uses of Netlisp. Enumerating the uses of Netlisp in the manipulation of design data is akin to listing the uses of perl for the manipulation of text files. As the manipulation of the data is under script control, the scope of applications is largely up to the user.

How to Reach Us

Customer satisfaction is a priority for us. Although located in the central time zone, we also respond to inquiries outside of normal business hours including weekends and holidays.

By eMail
Netlisp Information Request
By telephone
855-NETLISP
By sMail
Bearwood Engineering, Inc.
P.O. Box 130
Lamar, IN 47550-0130