What is an analysis view?
From PDVerse MMMC Interview Masterclass, part of the pdVerse Mentor Series
Direct answer
An analysis view (called a "scenario" in Synopsys tools) is the complete unit of static timing analysis — binding one constraint mode (logical intent) to one delay corner (physical environment) to form a timing graph against which slack is computed.
Mentor explanation
An analysis view combines logical constraints and physical conditions into a checkable timing universe.
Key terms
- Constraint mode — the "what": clocks, I/O delays, case analysis, exceptions.
- Delay corner — the "condition": library set + RC corner.
- Analysis view / Scenario — constraint mode + delay corner, the complete context for timing evaluation.
- Concurrent multi-view optimization — the PnR optimizer evaluates cell sizing and buffering across all active views simultaneously.
Cadence calls this an analysis view [Innovus: create_analysis_view]; Synopsys calls it a scenario [ICC2: create_scenario]. The underlying concepts and timing math are identical.
Practical example
Creating and Activating Analysis Views:
# 1. Define Analysis Views
create_analysis_view -name func_ss_rcmax -constraint_mode cm_func -delay_corner dc_ss_rcmax
create_analysis_view -name func_ff_rcmin -constraint_mode cm_func -delay_corner dc_ff_rcmin
create_analysis_view -name test_ss_rcmax -constraint_mode cm_scan -delay_corner dc_ss_rcmax
create_analysis_view -name test_ff_rcmin -constraint_mode cm_scan -delay_corner dc_ff_rcmin
# 2. Activate Views for Concurrent Optimization & Timing Signoff
set_analysis_view -setup {func_ss_rcmax test_ss_rcmax} -hold {func_ff_rcmin test_ff_rcmin}Interview trap
Assuming an analysis view exists automatically once libraries and SDC are loaded. You must explicitly build [Innovus: create_analysis_view] and activate [Innovus: set_analysis_view] view objects.
Key takeaways
- Analysis View = Constraint Mode (SDC) + Delay Corner (Libraries + Parasitics).
- It represents the exact context in which timing slack, WNS, and TNS are reported.
- Synopsys tools refer to this identical concept as a 'Scenario'.
Self-check: can you answer this aloud?
Try a 45-second answer using this structure:
- State the direct answer.
- Explain the timing or physical reason.
- Name one caveat.
- Say how you would verify it in a real flow.
MMMC Signoff Guide
Master Multi-Mode Multi-Corner Timing Signoff
Explore the full 10-chapter MMMC guide on modes, PVT corners, RC parasitics, analysis views, and correlation between implementation and signoff tools.
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