Environment Setup

To run Cocotb, you need three main components:

1. Python 3.6+: The programming language.
2. HDL Simulator: To simulate the Verilog/SystemVerilog code (e.g., Icarus Verilog, Verilator).
3. Cocotb Library: The bridge between Python and the simulator.

The easiest free simulator for Windows is Icarus Verilog.

1. Download the installer from bleyer.org/icarus/.
2. Run the installer. Crucial: Check the box "Add executable to your User PATH" during installation.
3. Open a new command prompt (CMD) and type:

iverilog -v

If you see version information, it is installed correctly.

Cocotb is a standard Python package. Open your terminal or command prompt and run:

pip install cocotb

Verify the installation:

cocotb-config --version

To debug your digital designs, you need to see the waveforms.

• GTKWave: Usually included with the Icarus Verilog installer on Windows.
• Check by typing gtkwave in your terminal.

Cocotb typically uses Makefiles to automate the simulation flow. On Windows, you might need to install make.

Easy way: If you have Git Bash installed, you likely have `make`. Alternatively, install it via Chocolatey (`choco install make`).