Dynamic Circuit Emulation via Change Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current emulation systems face inefficiencies due to the need to stop the emulation process for the longest propagation time across multiple integrated circuit devices, leading to increased runtime and costs, as they do not dynamically control the emulation based on detected signal changes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method that includes instrumenting the circuit design with change detection and synchronization circuits to dynamically stop and restart the emulation process based on detected signal changes, allowing for shorter emulation cycles and improved synchronization across IC devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the emulation process stops for the longest propagation time across multiple IC devices, then signal propagation reliability is ensured, but emulation runtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the emulation stop duration based on actual signal propagation needs. Instead of using a fixed longest propagation time for all emulation stops, the controller now determines stop duration adaptively by detecting when signals have actually propagated through the IC devices, allowing shorter stops when signals propagate faster than the maximum expected time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms through propagation detection circuits that monitor signal states and provide information to the controller. This feedback allows the controller to make informed decisions about when to resume emulation, ensuring that signals have actually propagated before continuing, thus maintaining reliability while optimizing runtime.
2Productivity
If change detection circuits are inserted to dynamically control emulation, then emulation throughput increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the emulation control function into separate modules: change detection circuits inserted in the circuit design, propagation detection circuits monitoring signal states, and a controller that coordinates emulation stops and resumes. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, improving throughput while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the change detection circuits and the emulation process. It receives detection signals, determines appropriate stop durations, and controls the resumption of emulation. This intermediary role simplifies the overall system by centralizing the decision-making logic and coordinating the interactions between various detection circuits and emulation components.
Data Source
AI summary
Emulating a circuit design includes receiving a circuit design. The circuit design is mapped onto integrated circuit (IC) devices. Further, the circuit design that is mapped onto the IC devices is instrumented by inserting a first change detection circuit and a first synchronization circuit. The first synchronization circuit is connected to the first change detection circuit and stops emulation on one of the IC devices based on an output of the first change detection circuit and completion of a first one or more emulation cycles. Further, the IC devices are provided for emulation.