Within a programmable-logic development software suite, what is the application that orchestrates synthesis/fitting steps and generally controls the overall operation of the toolchain called?

Introduction / Context:
Programmable-logic design software bundles multiple steps: design entry, elaboration, synthesis, fitting/place-and-route, and programming file generation. The coordination of these steps is handled by a central application. This item asks you to name that controlling application.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The environment is a PLD/FPGA tool suite.
• One application “controls the operation of the software.”
• We are to identify the correct term among the options.

Concept / Approach:
In vendor flows, the “compiler” is the umbrella application that invokes synthesis, optimization, technology mapping, and fitting to produce a device-ready programming file. Other terms in the options are unrelated: bed-of-nails is a PCB test fixture; boundary scan is a JTAG test methodology; primitive refers to a basic library element (gate, LUT, flip-flop) inside the device.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Map “controls the operation of the software” to the orchestrator of build steps.In PLD/FPGA workflows, this orchestrator is called the compiler.Rule out test and library terms not responsible for flow control.

Verification / Alternative check:
Tool GUIs and command-line interfaces frequently label the top-level action as “Compile,” which triggers synthesis and fitter passes.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Bed-of-nails and boundary scan relate to testing hardware, not running the software toolchain. Primitive is a device building block, not a controller application.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “synthesis” (a specific step) with the entire flow controller; many vendors still call the flow orchestrator the compiler even when third-party synthesis tools are integrated.

Final Answer:
compiler