Mind the Gap: Bridging Verilog and Computer Architecture

We present an approach to teach RISC processor design for an undergraduate computer architecture course specifically aimed to reduce the gap between a high-level datapath block diagram and a complete Verilog code specification. We propose a graphical approach designed to develop an understanding of the MIPS processor organization at the Verilog structural level by using an online browser-based simulator, from a single cycle design to pipeline design. The students are lead through a series of examples, step by step, and they can actively be involved in the processor design process. We believe that the best choice should not introduce excessive complexity that becomes a barrier in describing the interconnection of a high-level diagram and the Verilog implementation code.