CPLD UART Debug Bridge for Driver-Free Register Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
CPLDs without a fixed UART interface require manual operation or remote software-driven debugging, which is inconvenient and lacks direct, driver-free communication with host computers for register debugging.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes a host computer, a circuit board with a UART unit, and a CPLD, where the CPLD has a data analyzing module, debugging module, output module, and data transmitting module to analyze, debug, and transmit data via the UART unit, allowing for direct debugging without a software driver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation is used to control debug device (jumper or switch), then debugging can be performed on CPLD without UART interface, but operation convenience deteriorates and debugging efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device that acts as a bridge between the host computer and the CPLD debug interface. This intermediary translates high-level debug commands into the specific control signals required by the CPLD's debug hardware, eliminating the need for manual jumper or switch manipulation while maintaining full debugging capability. The intermediary handles the complexity of manual operations internally, presenting a simplified interface to the user.
2Ease of operation
If remote operation is employed to debug hardware, then operation convenience improves, but software driver requirement increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the debug device automatically detects the presence of a host computer and configures itself without requiring external software drivers. The device includes built-in intelligence that enables it to initiate communication, negotiate parameters, and set up the debugging environment autonomously. This eliminates the need for complex driver installation while maintaining remote operation capability.
3Ease of operation
If CPLD has fixed UART interface, then communication with host computer is simplified, but adaptability to different debugging scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal debug interface that can operate in multiple modes depending on the specific debugging scenario. The interface includes a UART unit that can function as the primary communication channel, but also incorporates alternative communication paths and protocols. This multi-functional design allows the same hardware to adapt to different debugging requirements while maintaining the simplicity of UART-based communication when applicable.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for processing data between host computer and CPLD provides a host computer, a circuit board comprising a UART unit, a pre-debugged hardware, and a CPLD. The UART unit communicates with the host computer via UART. The method further provides the CPLD coupled between the UART unit and the pre-debugged hardware and allows the CPLD to receive data from the host computer via the UART unit and to analyze the data. According to the method, the CPLD debugs the pre-debugged hardware according to the analyzed data and obtains a result of debugging. The CPLD outputs the result and allows the CPLD to transmit the result to the host computer via the UART unit. A system using the method is also provided.