What is HAV Emulation?

HAV emulation works by compiling a hardware design, described in a hardware description language (HDL) like Verilog or VHDL, into a format that can be loaded onto a specialized emulation system. These systems are built with custom hardware that can execute the design much faster than a typical software simulator.

1. Design Compilation and Mapping

The process begins with the compilation of the design's RTL code. The code is synthesized and mapped onto the emulation platform, which may consist of custom chips, FPGAs, or a combination of both. This mapping process ensures the emulation hardware can accurately reproduce the logic and behavior of the intended silicon.

2. System Configuration and Initialization

After mapping, the emulation system is configured to mimic the complete operational environment of the target design. This includes connecting peripherals, setting up memory interfaces, and integrating with testbenches or host systems. The emulation platform is then initialized and ready to execute the design in a controlled, real-world scenario.

3. Execution and Testing

Engineers can run a wide range of test cases, including booting operating systems, executing application software, and simulating real-world data flows. Because HAV emulation operates at much higher speeds than simulation, it is possible to test millions or even billions of cycles, uncovering issues that may only appear during extended operation or under specific workloads.

4. Debugging and Analysis

Advanced debug tools are integrated into HAV emulation platforms, providing visibility into internal signals, states, and transactions. Engineers can set breakpoints, capture waveforms, and perform root-cause analysis, helping them quickly identify design flaws or integration issues.

5. Software Development and Co-Validation

One of the greatest strengths of HAV emulation is its support for concurrent software development. Software teams can begin developing, testing, and optimizing firmware, drivers, and applications on the emulated hardware, well before silicon is available. This parallel development accelerates project timelines and improves overall product quality.

With the increasing integration and complexity of SoCs, traditional simulation techniques are no longer sufficient for full-system validation. HAV emulation provides the speed and capacity necessary to verify entire systems, including the interaction between hardware and software, under realistic workloads and operating conditions.

This capability is especially important in industries where reliability and safety are critical, such as automotive and data center applications. By enabling early and thorough system validation, HAV emulation reduces the risk of design flaws and accelerates the overall development cycle.

HAV emulation brings a host of advantages to the verification and development process:

• High-Speed Verification: Executes designs much faster than simulation, enabling long test runs and comprehensive coverage.
• Early System Validation: Allows for full-system validation, including hardware-software interactions and real-world use cases, before silicon fabrication.
• Concurrent Software Development: Enables software teams to develop and validate code in parallel with hardware design, reducing overall time-to-market.
• Advanced Debug Capabilities: Provides deep visibility into the design, with tools for signal tracing, protocol analysis, and system-level debug.
• Scalability: Supports very large designs, including multi-billion gate SoCs, through partitioning and parallel execution.
• Reduced Risk: Catches critical bugs and integration issues early, minimizing the risk of costly silicon re-spins and post-production failures.
• Flexible Use Models: Supports a range of verification tasks, from functional testing to performance analysis and compliance validation.
• Improved Collaboration: Facilitates collaboration between hardware and software teams, as well as with ecosystem partners and customers.
• Resource Optimization: Frees up simulation resources and enables teams to focus on higher-value verification activities.