Actel has announced the release of Libero Integrated Design Environment (IDE) v8.6.

This latest version of the Libero IDE features upgraded power analysis using the SmartPower tool and post-layout probe insertion for device debug.

SmartPower v8.6 includes a new design analysis algorithm that provides an accurate method for performing power analysis without having to utilise the traditional Value Change Dump (VCD) file.

In addition, the new I/O Advisor identifies and suggests an I/O configuration that provides the least power consumption while meeting timing constraints.

According to the supplier, in SmartPower, the new vectorless power estimation provides power consumption results approaching the accuracy of a simulation derived VCD file in considerably less time. In the absence of simulation data, this feature provides better activity estimation than the traditional default toggle rate method. 

Also within SmartPower, the I/O Advisor analyses a design and suggests alternate output loads, drive strengths and slew rates that, when selected, reduce I/O power consumption.