Large-Scale hardware Simulation: Modeling and Verification (1991) [1 citations — 0 self]
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Abstract:
Simulation is a critically important phase of modern computer hardware design. Lacking practical formal methods for proving complex systems correct, designers must run tests on simulation models to demonstrate correctness before chips and boards are fabricated. Using a large-scale model, such as an entire CPU, at a low level of representation, such as the logic gate level, is an efficient way to uncover the inevitable bugs in a complex design. Testing efforts should aim at finding these bugs rather than passing a fixed set of tests. Random generation of automatically checked tests effectively applies computing power to the debugging process. Simulation "demons," which run alongside a test, help to find difficult bugs in the interactions of subsystems. The methodological ideas discussed in this paper have been used in several large projects at Digital. 1
