Insert Block Port is used to insert a block port into a block. The port is mapped to a symbol pin on the block instance.
Shortcuts
Default Keys: None
Default Menu: Insert
Command: Insert Block Port
Locating this option
Available from: Insert menu > Insert Block Port options
How To Insert A Block Port
Inserting a Block Port is very similar to inserting a Documentation Symbol. The dialog only lists the Schematic Documentation Symbols which have been defined as Block Ports. A Block Port will have a single pin which is the connection through the hierarchy.
You can also add a block port by using the End Connection On from the context menu whilst adding a connection.
How Port Names Are Allocated
A block has ports which map the symbol pin (shown in the Pin Number control) on the Block Instance, to the Port Name.
A Port Name can be any string you wish. When you add a block port, you can assign one of the ports which
exist on the block, but which has not already been assigned to another block port symbol. Alternatively, you can add a
completely new port, which is assigned to the next available block instance pin number (shown
as
The dialog offers a list of the currently unassigned Port Names. If you select one of these names, the corresponding block instance Pin Number is also selected. The final Port Name in the list is the first free one based on an increment of the previous port names, this is assigned to the next available Pin Number.
You can also rename a port by typing a new name into the Port Name control.
You can use the Pin Type control to review and change the pin type on the port.
Bus Pins - Connecting a Bus To a Block Port
A special condition exists for Block Ports when adding a Bus to the design. A bus can be connected (like a connection) to a Block Port. When editing a Bus, if you move the mouse over the Block Port, the Finish marker will be displayed indicating it can be connect to. You can then connect to the Block Port. When a lower level Block Port is added, a Bus can also be connected to this pin, it will then carry all the nets from the upper level.
Related Topics
Hierarchy Overview | Properties - Block Ports | Properties - Block Instance | Bus