System-on-a-chip design platform with microcomputer co-debugging interface

The higher integration of the system-on-a-chip (SoC) has intensified the need for a system-on-a-chip design platform with a built-in microcomputer. An important element in SoC design with a built-in microcomputer is the debugging function. Here, we developed an SoC design platform equipped with a debugging interface shared by the microcomputer. By adopting the design methodology using this platform, we can shorten the SoC design period because we can concentrate on the new design or customization of the important hardware and software of the system and can nearly simultaneously start software and hardware development. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.