What is the mean of .qip file?

[Altera_Forum]

When we create a IP core from Megawizard, beside source file (.v or .vhd) sometimes it will create a file with extension .qip . 

 In the file, there are some TCL codes in it. When compiled, Quartus will report warning about it can not find the corresponding .qip files for some IP core. What is mean of .qip file? I have never use it but why it is important?  Thanks very much.

[Altera_Forum]

.qip files are used by Quartus to describe the IP that was generated by the wizard. You should include the .qip file in the your Quartus project and it will automatically include the other files it needs for the IP.

[Altera_Forum]

Thanks very much. If the .qip file lost, how can I get it back? Can I edit .qip file to change the IP instead of using Megawizard GUI?

[Altera_Forum]

You should edit the IP core using the wizard. If you lose the .qip file you will have to recreate the IP core. You can often edit the HDL file (.v if you're using Verilog) to make quick changes but the changes will be lost the next time the wizard is run.

[Altera_Forum]

Thanks. So wizard is the only way to edit the IP core permanently, right?

[Altera_Forum]

If you want to avoid losing changes when the wizard is run, yes, that is the only way. It's also the recommended way to make changes.

[Altera_Forum]

Thanks very much!