Output pin for selectively outputting one of a plurality of signals internal to a semiconductor chip according to a programmable register for diagnostics
US5717695A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 4, 1995 |
| Grant date | Feb 10, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 4, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03K19/1732
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of gaining access to multiple signals internal to a semiconductor chip while minimizing the number of pins dedicated for diagnostic and testing purposes. A chip designer determines which internal signals would most likely be helpful in troubleshooting and debugging a new chip design. These signals are input to a selector. A configuration register is loaded with information specifying which ones of these signals is to be routed to the output pin(s) so that they can be monitored externally by a logic analyzer in real-time. The selector only routes the currently designated signals to the appropriate output pin(s). Subsequently, a different set of signals can be selectively routed to the output pin(s) in place of the originally chosen signals.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.