Dual-Purpose Connector for Automatic Debug Interface Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing dedicated testing and/or debugging interfaces in integrated circuits becomes complicated once they are covered during the transition from development to actual system deployment, making it difficult to diagnose issues or test under real conditions.
Innovation Solution
A connector and connection circuit controlled by a controller that automatically establishes a connection between the testing and/or debugging interface and the connector when a testing and/or debugging apparatus is connected, allowing for both testing and normal operation modes without the need for a separate dedicated connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate dedicated connector is provided for testing and debugging interfaces, then access to testing interfaces is ensured, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to serve dual purposes: it functions as a standard connector for accessory apparatus during normal operation, and simultaneously serves as a testing/debugging connector when a testing apparatus is connected. The controller automatically detects the connected apparatus type and reconfigures the connection circuit accordingly, eliminating the need for separate dedicated testing connectors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated testing interfaces are covered in production systems, then system maturity and integration are improved, but access to testing interfaces becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The connector acts as an intermediary access point that provides indirect access to the testing interface. Instead of requiring direct physical access to the testing interface pins (which would be covered), the testing apparatus connects through the standard connector interface, and the controller mediates the connection by reconfiguring the connection circuit to route signals between the connector and the testing interface.
3Ease of operation
If automatic connection establishment is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic self-identification and self-configuration. When an apparatus is connected to the connector, the controller automatically detects whether it is a testing apparatus or an accessory apparatus, and autonomously reconfigures the connection circuit without requiring manual intervention or complex external control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to automatically establishing a connection between a testing and/or debugging interface to an integrated circuit and a connector of an apparatus, the connector being connectable to a testing and/or debugging apparatus configured to communicate with the testing and/or debugging interface via the connector in a testing and/or debugging mode of the apparatus and connectable to an accessory apparatus to be used in a normal operation mode of the apparatus, if the testing and/or debugging apparatus is connected to the connector, thereby establishing the testing and/or debugging mode of the apparatus.