Programmable Logic Configuration Validation Using Bitstream Indicators
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing programmable logic devices lack a method to verify the validity of configuration data stored in non-volatile memory before using it, leading to potential failures due to corrupted or invalid data, which can result in inefficient resource usage and incorrect device operation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that validate configuration bitstreams by storing a validation indicator with the data, allowing the programmable logic device to configure only if the indicator confirms valid data, and optionally using a separate device to monitor and reconfigure if necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If configuration data is stored in non-volatile memory without validation, then the device can operate, but the system reliability deteriorates due to potential corrupted or invalid data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by validating configuration data before it is loaded into volatile memory for device operation. A validation indicator is checked in advance to determine whether the configuration data is correct, preventing corrupted data from causing system failures. This early validation approach ensures reliability without requiring complex runtime verification mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary validation indicator that acts as a mediator between the stored configuration data and the device operation. This indicator serves as a simple verification mechanism that confirms data integrity without requiring complex analysis of the configuration data itself, thus improving reliability while maintaining simplicity.
2Reliability
If configuration data is validated before loading, then the reliability improves, but the time and resources required for configuration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the validation indicator from the configuration data storage process, storing it separately in the same non-volatile memory. This allows the validation check to be performed independently and efficiently by simply reading the indicator bit, rather than performing complex validation of the entire configuration data set, thus minimizing time loss while ensuring reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The validation indicator functions as a simple, lightweight verification mechanism that requires minimal processing resources. It is a single-bit or small-field indicator that can be checked rapidly without consuming significant time or computational resources, making it an efficient solution for ensuring configuration validity.
3Reliability
If invalid configuration data is used, then the device may fail to operate correctly, but using a third device for recovery increases resource inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prevents operational failures by performing preliminary validation of configuration data before the device attempts to operate with it. By checking the validation indicator in advance, the system avoids the need for third-party recovery devices or complex error handling mechanisms, thus ensuring operational correctness while maintaining resource efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-validation of its configuration data through the validation indicator mechanism. The device can independently verify whether its configuration data is valid without requiring external assistance or recovery devices, thereby ensuring operational correctness while avoiding the resource overhead of third-party intervention systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of verifying configuration data to be loaded into a device having programmable logic is described. The method comprising the steps of validating a configuration bitstream to be loaded into the device having programmable logic; storing a validation indicator with the configuration bitstream in a non-volatile memory device; and configuring the programmable logic according to the configuration bitstream if the validation indicator indicates that valid data is stored in the non-volatile memory device. A system for verifying configuration data to be loaded into a device having programmable logic is also described.