XSVF File Extension

What is XSVF file?

Introduction to XSVF Files

Binary files with the extension .XSVF contain data used for testing the software of PLD devices managed by Xilinx. They represent the equivalent of SVF files but are written in a compact, easy-to-read binary form for software. These files include optimized operations for JTAG on Programmable Logic Devices.

Creating XSVF Files in Xilinx iMPACT Software

The Xilinx iMPACT software allows for the generation of SVF and XSVF files. The SVF2XSVF converter is used to transform SVF into XSVF. This application also supports command line operation. The testing capabilities documented in the files are based on the Boundary Scan Description Language (BSDL). Stored in the files can be basic commands:

• XSIR - Scan Instruction Register,
• XSDR - Scan Data Register,
• XRUNTEST,
• XSTATE,
• as well as a series of other, more complex ones.

Each of them accepts parameters described in detail in the software documentation. In XSVF files, commands only occupy one byte of space - they correspond to specific HEX codes, supplemented by variable-length arguments.

How to Run Files with the XSVF Extension?

Reading XSVF files and executing them is possible mainly in dedicated Xilinx software due to their binary format. Their textual equivalents, SVF, written in ASCII can be altered in any text editor, preserving semantics and syntax. To run a file on a board with a JTAG chain interface, connecting the devices, launching the iMPACT software, and selecting the operation to perform a specific XSVF file is required.

Programs which support XSVF file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support XSVF files. XSVF files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 05/06/2024

How to open file with XSVF extension?

Being unable to open files with XSVF extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with XSVF files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with XSVF files.

Step 1. Install ISE Design Suite software

Problems with opening and working with XSVF files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with XSVF files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install ISE Design Suite or one to the listed programs: ISE WebPACK. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download ISE Design Suite installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Xilinx, Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of ISE Design Suite and update if needed

You still cannot access XSVF files although ISE Design Suite is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why XSVF files are not compatible with ISE Design Suite. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using ISE Design Suite.

Step 3. Assign ISE Design Suite to XSVF files

After installing ISE Design Suite (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open XSVF files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the XSVF file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where ISE Design Suite is installed, check the Always use this app to open XSVF files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with XSVF extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with XSVF extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the XSVF for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the XSVF file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the XSVF in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the XSVF is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. XSVF file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with XSVF extension is complete and error-free

If the XSVF file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with XSVF extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Xilinx Serial Vector Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open ISE Design Suite

If the systems has insufficient resources to open XSVF files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Xilinx Serial Vector Format file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with XSVF files affecting older versions of given software.

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