Significant value has accrued in the models that have been developed and and in their calibration to actual hardware systems that were constructed or obtained. Recently the need for, and value of the CSIM tools, has become more recognized and the tools have undergone significantly more rapid improvement. See Language discussion. . At ATL we routinely observe performance model results that match within a few percent to actual measurements on the physical systems in our lab. The accuracy of simulation results has more to do with the quality of the models and their parameters than it does with the simulator.
Simulations are as accurate as the models are valid.
Therefore, model validation is one of the most important aspects to any simulation endeavor. It is helpful to use pre-validated library models where possible. Any new models should be validated prior to relying on their results. The validation process should compare the model to actual hardware systems or other trusted simulations, if possible. We promote a model-calibration process, where the model and its parameters are modified as needed to reach a satisfactory degree of accuracy.