Segmented Trace Buffer for Continuous Dynamic Circuit Signal Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional logic analyzers can only capture data signal history preceding a single trigger point and must stop capturing new data samples to transfer data, which limits their ability to analyze dynamic electronic circuits whose clocks cannot be stopped.
Innovation Solution
A logic analyzer system with a trace buffer partitioned into multiple segments, allowing continuous capture and storage of data signal history across multiple trigger points, where each trigger condition causes data collection to move to a new segment, enabling the capture of data history before subsequent trigger points without stopping the clock.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the logic analyzer captures data signals into a trace buffer, then data signal history can be stored for analysis, but the clock must be stopped to transfer the captured data, which interrupts the dynamic circuit operation
Solution Approach 1:
The trace buffer is divided into multiple segments that can be independently accessed. This allows the logic analyzer to capture data signals into different segments without needing to stop the clock for transfers, as multiple segments can be filled concurrently with the circuit operating normally.
Solution Approach 2:
The trace buffer segments are pre-configured and ready to receive data signals before the trigger event occurs. This preliminary preparation allows continuous capture operation without interruption when the trigger condition is met, eliminating the need to stop the clock for data transfer.
2Loss of information
If the logic analyzer captures data history before a single trigger point, then the data can be analyzed, but multiple trigger points cannot be captured in sequence
Solution Approach 1:
The trace buffer is segmented into multiple independent regions, each capable of capturing data history before a specific trigger point. This segmentation enables the system to capture and store data for multiple trigger points sequentially, with each segment dedicated to a particular trigger event.
Solution Approach 2:
The trace buffer segments can be dynamically allocated and activated based on trigger conditions. When a trigger point is detected, the corresponding segment is activated for capture, allowing the system to adaptively handle multiple trigger points in sequence without losing data.
3Loss of information
If the logic analyzer stops capturing new data samples to transfer captured data, then the captured data can be transferred to the computer, but new data signals are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The trace buffer is divided into multiple segments, allowing the system to transfer data from one segment while continuing to capture new data in other segments. This eliminates the need to stop capturing entirely during transfer operations, preserving both captured and incoming data signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The data capture operation continues uninterrupted throughout the process. Multiple trace buffer segments enable continuous filling of new data while old data is transferred to the computer, maintaining continuous useful action without stopping the clock or losing data samples.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for tracing an operation of an electronic circuit is provided. The system includes an electronic circuit, a trace buffer, and a trigger detection circuit. The trace buffer includes a plurality of segments configured to continually collect and store data signals of the electronic circuit. The data signals are collected in a current segment of the plurality of segments. The trigger detection circuit is adapted to provide a trigger signal when a trigger condition is met. Each time upon generation of the trigger signal when the trigger condition is met, the collection of the data signals is stopped in the current segment and subsequent data signals are collected in a new segment of the plurality of segments.