Validation and test of systems on chip: a case study

Complex integrated systems that include embedded digital microprocessors and analogue parts have validation and test problems that cannot be solved only with simulation or classic emulation techniques. Rapid prototyping techniques via FPGA compilation can be very helpful to solve some problems in validation of these complex systems. This paper presents an experience on both ASIC and custom prototype validation of a mixed signal ASIC with an embedded microprocessor. Some specific approaches to solve problems in the validation of the overall system and conclusions about the problems found in the process of design validation and production test generation are given. A First Users (FUSE) action of the European Union has supported the project, which is now in its transfer to production phase.