Automatic Generation of Critical-Path Tests for a Partial-Scan Microprocessor

  • Authors:
  • Joel Grodstein;Dilip Bhavsar;Vijay Bettada;Richard Davies

  • Affiliations:
  • -;-;-;-

  • Venue:
  • ICCD '03 Proceedings of the 21st International Conference on Computer Design
  • Year:
  • 2003

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Abstract

We present our experiences generating scan-based critical-pathtests for the partial-scan Alpha 21364 microprocessor, includingthe effects of crosstalk and multiple-inputs switching on pathdelay. Insufficient scan penetration made this difficult[1], but anew ATPG algorithm increased our coverage. Comparison with actualsilicon shows interesting results; we explain them with statisticalanalysis, factoring the effect of statistical process variationinto the effects of crosstalk and multiple-input switching ondelay. Finally, we draw conclusions about how to help make futuredesigns amenable to speed testing.