Convert CKT to SAT

Understanding CKT and SAT file formats

CKT files are typically associated with electronic circuit design software, such as PSpice or other SPICE-based simulators. These files contain circuit schematics, component values, and netlists used for simulating electronic circuits.

SAT files are most commonly known as ACIS SAT files, which are 3D model files used in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) applications. However, in the context of circuit design, SAT may refer to files used for Satisfiability (SAT) problem instances, which are used in logic synthesis, verification, and testing of digital circuits. These files describe Boolean formulas in a format suitable for SAT solvers.

Why convert CKT to SAT?

Converting a CKT file to a SAT file is often required in digital design verification. The process involves translating a circuit schematic (CKT) into a Boolean formula (SAT) to check for logical correctness, equivalence, or to perform formal verification using SAT solvers.

How to convert CKT to SAT

There is no direct, universal converter for CKT to SAT, as the process depends on the specific tools and the intended use. The general workflow involves:

• Exporting the netlist from your circuit design tool (e.g., PSpice, LTspice) in a standard format.
• Using a logic synthesis tool to convert the netlist into a gate-level representation.
• Employing a tool like ABC (A System for Sequential Synthesis and Verification) to generate a SAT instance from the gate-level netlist.

Recommended software for CKT to SAT conversion

ABC is a powerful open-source tool for logic synthesis and formal verification. It can read netlists in BLIF or Verilog format and generate SAT instances for use with SAT solvers.

Typical workflow:

1. In your circuit design tool, export the netlist as Verilog or BLIF (File → Export → Verilog).
2. Open the netlist in ABC and use the command to generate a SAT instance (e.g., write_sat).

Other tools that may assist in the process include Yosys (for synthesis) and MiniSAT (for solving SAT instances).

Summary

Converting CKT files to SAT files is a multi-step process involving netlist export, logic synthesis, and SAT instance generation. ABC is the recommended tool for this workflow, especially when working with digital circuits and formal verification.