As shown in the previous figure, the Incremental Run requires a reference checkpoint to
be read in to start the incremental place and route. The read_checkpoint
-incremental <reference>.dcp command initiates the incremental flow and
must be issued before place_design.
Reference Design
The reference design is typically a fully routed checkpoint from a previous iteration or a different variation of the incremental design. If using a different variation or a design, it is important that the hierarchy names from the reference design match the incremental design.
When lower levels of reuse are required, for example reusing only RAM and DSP block placement, it is acceptable to have as little as the placement information for those cells in the reference checkpoint. The reference design must match device. It is also recommended to match tool version but this is not a requirement.
Incremental Design
The incremental design is the updated design that is to be run through the implementation tools. It can include RTL Changes, Netlist Changes or both.
Constraint changes are allowed but general tightening of constraints will significantly impact placement and routing and is generally best added outside of the incremental flow.