Multitask Processor Debugging via Emulator Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Classic debugging methods for multitask programs do not allow interruption of a debugging task by a higher-priority task, and fail to detect conflicts in resource access between tasks, making it difficult to debug multitask programs effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that enable a task in debugging mode to be interrupted by a priority task, with a simplified test interface linking a processing unit to an external emulator, allowing the processor to activate debugging mode and send activation messages with context information, and reject instructions until acknowledgement is received, ensuring accurate debugging and conflict detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a task in debugging mode is interrupted by a higher-priority task, then conflict detection between tasks is enabled, but the debugging process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by having the processor send activation messages to the external emulator when debugging mode is activated, and the emulator sends back acknowledgement messages. This feedback mechanism allows the system to track the state of debugging across task interruptions and context switches, enabling conflict detection while maintaining debugging integrity despite the increased complexity of multitask interruption handling.
2Loss of information
If the processor sends activation messages and receives acknowledgements, then context information is maintained accurately, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the processor send the activation message containing context information (such as program counter value and task identifier) before the external emulator needs to acknowledge it. This ensures that context information is transmitted in advance, maintaining accuracy while allowing the acknowledgement process to be streamlined and minimizing the time loss associated with communication overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for debugging a multitask program executed by a processor includes interrupting the processor during the execution of a task of the program, and activating a debugging mode of the processor, wherein the instructions executed by the processor are supplied by an external emulator. The method comprises steps during which: the processor sends an activation message to the external emulator every time the debugging mode is activated, and upon receiving the activation message, the external emulator sends an acknowledgement message to the processor containing at least one portion of the activation message received.