US5353243A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Hardware modeling system and method of use
Assignee: Synopsys Inc
•
Filing: 1992-08-31
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Granted: 1994-10-04
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Expires: 2012-08-31
Abstract
Abstract An improved hardware modeling system that is preferably embodied as a stand-alone system for networked connection to one or a variety of host computers that are used to design digital electronics systems, the hardware modeling system having a network interface for communicating between the hardware modeling system and the host computer, a central processing unit for controlling operation of the hardware modeling system, a central timing unit for generating timing signals for use in the operation of the hardware modeling system including the generation of precision clocks, data formatting strobes and sample strobes, an internal pattern bus for transmission of read/write requests from the central processing unit in one operational mode and pattern sequences for stimulation of the hardware modeling element in a second operational mode, a pattern controller for controlling presentation and delivery of the pattern sequences to the pattern bus, a pattern memory connected to the pattern controller for storing stimulus pattern sequences, pin electronics circuitry which is used for driving the pattern sequences on the pattern bus to the hardware modeling element and then sensing the five state values of the hardware modeling element pins, and an adapter that is used for fixturing the hardware modeling element to the pin electronics circuitry with the adapter supporting live insertion into a powered hardware modeling system.
Inventors
- 👤 Andrew J. Read
- 👤 Mark S. Papamarcos
- 👤 Wayne P. Heideman
- 👤 Robert K. Mardjuki
- 👤 Robert K. Couch
- 👤 Peter R. Jaeger
- 👤 William F. Kappauf
- 👤 Lawrence C. Widdoes, Jr.
- 👤 Louis K. Scheffer
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-31 02:58
CPC Classifications
G; G06; G06F; G06F30/00; G06F30/30; G06F30/32; G06F30/33; G01; G01R; G01R31/00; G01R31/28; G01R31/317; G01R31/3181; G01R31/319; G01R31/31917; G01R31/31919; G01R31/31928
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 180
Claim 1
Independent Claim
171 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in a driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
171 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in a driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 3
Independent Claim
178 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is other than between the first and second reference voltages to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 4
Independent Claim
178 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is other than between the first and second reference voltages to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 5
Independent Claim
177 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is other than between the first and second reference voltages to indicate that pin is in another state.
Claim 6
Independent Claim
177 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is other than between the first and second reference voltages to indicate that pin is in another state.
Claim 7
Independent Claim
171 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is above a reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in a driving high state, or if the voltage of the pin is below the reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 8
Independent Claim
171 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is above a reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in a driving high state, or if the voltage of the pin is below the reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 9
Independent Claim
209 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 10
Independent Claim
209 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 11
Independent Claim
209 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 12
Independent Claim
209 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 13
Independent Claim
180 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 14
Independent Claim
180 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 15
Independent Claim
180 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is above a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 16
Independent Claim
180 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is above a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 17
Independent Claim
172 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater that the reference current to indicate that the pin is in a driving low state, or if the current into the pin is less than the reference current to indicate the pin is in another state.
Claim 18
Independent Claim
172 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater that the reference current to indicate that the pin is in a driving low state, or if the current into the pin is less than the reference current to indicate the pin is in another state.
Claim 19
Independent Claim
178 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is between a first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is other than between the first and second reference currents to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 20
Independent Claim
178 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to one of a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve and a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is between a first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is other than between the first and second reference currents to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 21
Independent Claim
176 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is between a first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is other than between the first and second reference currents to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 22
Independent Claim
176 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is between a first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is other than between the first and second reference currents to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 23
Independent Claim
171 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is less than a reference current to indicate that the pin is in a driving high state, or if the current into the pin is greater than the reference current to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 24
Independent Claim
171 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is less than a reference current to indicate that the pin is in a driving high state, or if the current into the pin is greater than the reference current to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 25
Independent Claim
207 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is less than the second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 26
Independent Claim
207 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is less than the second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 27
Independent Claim
207 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is less than the second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 28
Independent Claim
207 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is less than the second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 29
Independent Claim
179 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 30
Independent Claim
179 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 31
Independent Claim
179 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is less than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 32
Independent Claim
179 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin according to a predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or a predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system according to the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is less than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
60 words
The method as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8, wherein the method further comprises the step of selecting one of the soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve and the soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve to program the pin driver according to a state of simulated circuitry connected to the pin in a simulated circuit design.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
60 words
The method as recited in claim 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16, wherein the method further comprises the step of selecting one of the soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve and the soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve to program the pin driver according to a state of simulated circuitry connected to the pin in a simulated circuit design.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
60 words
The method as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16, wherein the method further comprises the step of determining simultaneously the states of a plurality of pins of an electronic device or circuitry that are electrically coupled to software programmable pin drivers of the hardware modeling systems.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
38 words
The method as recited in claim 19, wherein the pin drivers that are electrically coupled to the pins are collectively programmable to drive with the predetermined soft-drive high I/V characteristic curve or predetermined soft-drive low I/V characteristic curve.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8, wherein the reference voltages are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 17, wherein the reference voltages are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 19, wherein the reference voltages are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 20, wherein the reference voltages are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8, wherein reference voltages are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 17, wherein the reference voltages are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 19, wherein the reference voltages are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 20, wherein the reference voltages are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method as recited in claim 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16, wherein the reference currents are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 18, wherein the reference currents are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 19, wherein the reference currents are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 20, wherein the reference currents are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method as recited in claim 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16, wherein the reference currents are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 18, wherein the reference currents are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 19, wherein the reference currents are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 20, wherein the reference currents are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 53
Independent Claim
150 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 54
Independent Claim
150 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 55
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward one of a logic low and a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is other than between the first and second reference voltages to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 56
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward one of a logic low and a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is other than between the first and second reference voltages to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 57
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward one of a logic low and a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is other than between the first and second reference voltages to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 58
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward one of a logic low and a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is other than between the first and second reference voltages to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 59
Independent Claim
150 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin towards a logic low or a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is above a reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the voltage of the pin is below the reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 60
Independent Claim
150 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin towards a logic low or a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is above a reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the voltage of the pin is below the reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 61
Independent Claim
186 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 62
Independent Claim
186 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 63
Independent Claim
186 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 64
Independent Claim
186 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between a first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the voltage of the pin is above the second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 65
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 66
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is below a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 67
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is above a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 68
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the voltage of the pin is above a first reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the voltage of the pin is between the first and a second reference voltage to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 69
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in the driving low state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a reference circuit to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is less than the reference current to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 70
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in the driving low state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a reference circuit to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is less than the reference current to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 71
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic low or a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is between a first reference current and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current at the pin is other than between the first and second reference currents to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 72
Independent Claim
159 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic low or a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is between a first reference current and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current at the pin is other than between the first and second reference currents to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 73
Independent Claim
157 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic low or a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is between a first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is other than between the first and second reference currents to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 74
Independent Claim
157 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic low or a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is between a first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is other than between the first and second reference currents to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 75
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic low or a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is less than a reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the current into the pin is greater than the reference current to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 76
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic low or a logic high, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is less than a reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the current into the pin is greater than the reference current to indicate that the pin is in another state.
Claim 77
Independent Claim
187 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is less than the second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 78
Independent Claim
187 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is less than the second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 79
Independent Claim
188 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is less than the second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 80
Independent Claim
188 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state, non-driving state, or driving high state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state, or if the current into the pin is less than the second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state.
Claim 81
Independent Claim
160 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 82
Independent Claim
160 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving low state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic low; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic low; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is greater than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving low state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 83
Independent Claim
160 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is less than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 84
Independent Claim
160 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining if a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system is in a driving high state or non-driving state, the pin driver being individually programmable by software means to drive the pin toward a logic high or a logic low, comprising the steps of: (a) programming the pin driver of the hardware modeling system to drive the pin toward the logic high; (b) driving the pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system toward the logic high; and (c) while driving the pin, automatically determining if the current into the pin is less than a first reference current to indicate that the pin is in the driving high state, or if the current into the pin is between the first and a second reference current to indicate that the pin is in the non-driving state.
Claim 85
Independent Claim
71 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage of the pin with a plurality of reference voltage levels that differentiate between at least four states of the pin.
Claim 86
Independent Claim
71 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage of the pin with a plurality of reference voltage levels that differentiate between at least four states of the pin.
Claim 87
Independent Claim
71 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with a plurality of reference current levels that differentiate between at least four states of the pin.
Claim 88
Independent Claim
71 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with a plurality of reference current levels that differentiate between at least four states of the pin.
Claim 89
Independent Claim
80 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage at the pin with a plurality of reference voltage levels that differentiate between at least a driving low state, non-driving low state, non-driving high state, and driving high state.
Claim 90
Independent Claim
80 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage at the pin with a plurality of reference voltage levels that differentiate between at least a driving low state, non-driving low state, non-driving high state, and driving high state.
Claim 91
Independent Claim
80 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with a plurality of reference current levels that differentiate between at least a driving low state, non-driving low state, non-driving high state, and driving high state.
Claim 92
Independent Claim
80 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with a plurality of reference current levels that differentiate between at least a driving low state, non-driving low state, non-driving high state, and driving high state.
Claim 93
Independent Claim
60 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage at the pin with at least three reference voltages.
Claim 94
Independent Claim
60 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage at the pin with at least three reference voltages.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method as recited in claim 57, wherein the method further includes the step of programming the reference voltages with the hardware modeling system.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method as recited in claim 58, wherein the method includes programming the reference voltages by software means.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method as recited in claim 58, wherein the method includes programming the reference voltages by hardware means.
Claim 98
Independent Claim
60 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with at least three reference currents.
Claim 99
Independent Claim
60 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with at least three reference currents.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method as recited in claim 61, wherein the method further includes the step of programming the reference currents with the hardware modeling systems.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method as recited in claim 62, wherein the method includes programming the reference currents by software means.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method as recited in claim 62, wherein the method includes programming the reference currents by hardware means.
Claim 103
Independent Claim
68 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing voltage at the pin in at least three comparators with a different reference voltage being provided to each comparator.
Claim 104
Independent Claim
68 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing voltage at the pin in at least three comparators with a different reference voltage being provided to each comparator.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 65, wherein the reference voltages are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 65, wherein the reference voltages are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 107
Independent Claim
69 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin in at least three comparators with a different reference current being provided to each comparator.
Claim 108
Independent Claim
69 words
A method for determining with a hardware modeling system a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin in at least three comparators with a different reference current being provided to each comparator.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 68, wherein the reference currents are software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method as recited in claim 68, wherein the reference currents are hardware programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 111
Independent Claim
84 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable, current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system, with the pin driver being programmable to drive with any one of at least eight different current limits, and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage of the pin with at least one reference voltage.
Claim 112
Independent Claim
84 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable, current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system, with the pin driver being programmable to drive with any one of at least eight different current limits, and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage of the pin with at least one reference voltage.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
49 words
The method as recited in claim 71 wherein the electronic devices or circuitry includes a plurality of pins electrically coupled to pin drivers of the hardware modeling system, and the current limit of the pin driver associated with each pin is independently software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 114
Independent Claim
84 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable, current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system, with the pin driver being programmable to drive with any one of at least eight different current limits and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with at least one reference current.
Claim 115
Independent Claim
84 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable, current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system, with the pin driver being programmable to drive with any one of at least eight different current limits and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with at least one reference current.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
49 words
The method as recited in claim 73, wherein the electronic devices or circuitry includes a plurality of pins electrically coupled to pin drivers of the hardware modeling system, and the current limit of the pin driver associated with each pin is independently software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 117
Independent Claim
85 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable, current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system, the pin driver being both a current sink and source and driving toward a predetermined software programmable voltage level, and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage of the pin with at least two reference voltages.
Claim 118
Independent Claim
85 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable, current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system, the pin driver being both a current sink and source and driving toward a predetermined software programmable voltage level, and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage of the pin with at least two reference voltages.
Claim 119
Independent Claim
85 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable, current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system, the pin driver being both a current sink and source and driving toward a predetermined software programmable voltage level and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with at least two reference currents.
Claim 120
Independent Claim
85 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable, current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system, the pin driver being both a current sink and source and driving toward a predetermined software programmable voltage level and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with at least two reference currents.
Claim 121
Independent Claim
82 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable pin driver of the hardware modeling system, the pin driver being programmable to drive with any one of at least eight different I/V characteristic curves, and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage of the pin with at least one reference voltage.
Claim 122
Independent Claim
82 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable pin driver of the hardware modeling system, the pin driver being programmable to drive with any one of at least eight different I/V characteristic curves, and at the same time, automatically comparing the voltage of the pin with at least one reference voltage.
Claim 123
Independent Claim
82 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable pin driver of the hardware modeling system, the pin driver being programmable to drive with any one of at least eight different I/V characteristic curves, and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with at least one reference current.
Claim 124
Independent Claim
82 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a software programmable pin driver of the hardware modeling system, the pin driver being programmable to drive with any one of at least eight different I/V characteristic curves, and at the same time, automatically comparing the current into the pin with at least one reference current.
Claim 125
Independent Claim
65 words
The method as recited in claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, wherein the method includes determining the state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system in response to an access to the hardware modeling system being assessed by a simulator via network means.
Claim 126
Independent Claim
60 words
The method as recited in claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, wherein the method includes determining a state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system with the hardware modeling system being time shared among a plurality of simulators.
Claim 127
Independent Claim
81 words
The method as recited in claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, wherein the method includes determining the state of a pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the hardware modeling system having a plurality of electronic devices or circuitry connected thereto with each electronic device or circuitry having at least one pin that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system.
Claim 128
Independent Claim
36 words
The method as recited in claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, wherein the pin is capable of functioning as both an input and an output.
Claim 129
Independent Claim
41 words
The method as recited in claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, wherein the method includes determining the states of a plurality of pins of the electronic device or circuitry simultaneously.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
70 words
The method as recited in claim 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, or 78, wherein the method further includes as a first step resetting and restoring the electronic device or circuitry to a specific internal state by presentation of a history sequence of stimulation patterns to the electronic device or circuitry.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
84 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for simultaneously stimulating and sensing at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including at least one current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system that is electrically coupled to a pin of the electronic device or circuitry, the current limit of the pin driver of the hardware modeling system being software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
84 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for simultaneously stimulating and sensing at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including at least one current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system that is electrically coupled to a pin of the electronic device or circuitry, the current limit of the pin driver of the hardware modeling system being software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
92 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for simultaneously stimulating and sensing at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including at least one pin driver of the hardware modeling system that is electrically coupled to a pin of the electronic device or circuitry, the pin driver of the hardware modeling system providing a programmable drive voltage for driving the pin connected thereto, the drive voltage being programmable to at least three different voltages.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
92 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for simultaneously stimulating and sensing at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including at least one pin driver of the hardware modeling system that is electrically coupled to a pin of the electronic device or circuitry, the pin driver of the hardware modeling system providing a programmable drive voltage for driving the pin connected thereto, the drive voltage being programmable to at least three different voltages.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
23 words
The multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit as recited in claim 86, wherein the drive voltage is software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
60 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for simultaneously stimulating and sensing at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including at least one channel having at least three voltage comparators for use in determining a state of at least one pin.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
60 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for simultaneously stimulating and sensing at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including at least one channel having at least three voltage comparators for use in determining a state of at least one pin.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
70 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for simultaneously stimulating and sensing at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including at least one channel having at least one voltage comparator for use in determining the state of at least one pin, the voltage comparator having input thereto a programmable reference voltage.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
70 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for simultaneously stimulating and sensing at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including at least one channel having at least one voltage comparator for use in determining the state of at least one pin, the voltage comparator having input thereto a programmable reference voltage.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
23 words
The multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit as recited in claim 89, wherein the reference voltage is software programmable by the hardware modeling system.
Claim 141
Independent Claim
92 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for executing hardware modeling system diagnostics using known-good diagnostic circuitry, comprising the steps of: (a) electrically coupling the diagnostic circuitry to the pin electronics circuitry of the hardware modeling system; (b) presenting stimulus patterns to the diagnostic circuitry using the pin electronics circuitry; (c) measuring a response of the diagnostic circuitry to the stimulus patterns applied in step (b); and (d) automatically comparing the response measured in step (c) with a known-good response to determine if the hardware modeling system is functioning properly.
Claim 142
Independent Claim
92 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for executing hardware modeling system diagnostics using known-good diagnostic circuitry, comprising the steps of: (a) electrically coupling the diagnostic circuitry to the pin electronics circuitry of the hardware modeling system; (b) presenting stimulus patterns to the diagnostic circuitry using the pin electronics circuitry; (c) measuring a response of the diagnostic circuitry to the stimulus patterns applied in step (b); and (d) automatically comparing the response measured in step (c) with a known-good response to determine if the hardware modeling system is functioning properly.
Claim 143
Independent Claim
67 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of at least one pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, and at the same time, automatically determining whether the pin is in a driving low state or a non-driving low state.
Claim 144
Independent Claim
67 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of at least one pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, and at the same time, automatically determining whether the pin is in a driving low state or a non-driving low state.
Claim 145
Independent Claim
67 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of at least one pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, and at the same time, automatically determining whether the pin is in a driving high state or a non-driving high state.
Claim 146
Independent Claim
67 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining a state of at least one pin of an electronic device or circuitry that is electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising: driving the pin with a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, and at the same time, automatically determining whether the pin is in a driving high state or a non-driving high state.
Claim 147
Independent Claim
75 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for restoring an electronic device or circuitry to a specific internal state, the electronic device or circuitry having at least one I/O pin electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the method comprising presenting a history sequence of stimulation patterns to the I/O pin of the electronic device or circuitry with a current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system coupled to the I/O pin.
Claim 148
Independent Claim
75 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for restoring an electronic device or circuitry to a specific internal state, the electronic device or circuitry having at least one I/O pin electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the method comprising presenting a history sequence of stimulation patterns to the I/O pin of the electronic device or circuitry with a current limited pin driver of the hardware modeling system coupled to the I/O pin.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method as recited in claim 94, wherein the current limit for the pin driver is less than 50 mA.
Claim 150
Independent Claim
73 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for restoring an electronic device or circuitry to a specific internal state, the electronic device or circuitry having at least one I/O pin electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the method comprising presenting a history sequence of stimulation patterns to the I/O pin of the electronic device or circuitry with a pulsed driver of the hardware modeling system coupled to the I/O pin.
Claim 151
Independent Claim
73 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for restoring an electronic device or circuitry to a specific internal state, the electronic device or circuitry having at least one I/O pin electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the method comprising presenting a history sequence of stimulation patterns to the I/O pin of the electronic device or circuitry with a pulsed driver of the hardware modeling system coupled to the I/O pin.
Claim 152
Independent Claim
177 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining an output delay of at least a first pin of an electronic device or circuitry according to a present internal state of the electronic device or circuitry in response to a stimulus applied to at least a second pin of the electronic device or circuitry, the pins being electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising the steps of: (a) resetting the electronic device or circuitry coupled to the hardware modeling system to a known internal state; (b) restoring the electronic device or circuitry coupled to the hardware modeling system to the present internal state; (c) stimulating the electronic device or circuitry coupled to the hardware modeling system by applying stimulus through at least the second pin; (d) sampling the state of the first pin according to a software programmable delay after the stimulus was applied; (e) changing the software programmable delay in a predetermined manner based on the state sampled during step (d); and (f) repeating steps (a)-(e) until the output delay time is determined.
Claim 153
Independent Claim
177 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for determining an output delay of at least a first pin of an electronic device or circuitry according to a present internal state of the electronic device or circuitry in response to a stimulus applied to at least a second pin of the electronic device or circuitry, the pins being electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, comprising the steps of: (a) resetting the electronic device or circuitry coupled to the hardware modeling system to a known internal state; (b) restoring the electronic device or circuitry coupled to the hardware modeling system to the present internal state; (c) stimulating the electronic device or circuitry coupled to the hardware modeling system by applying stimulus through at least the second pin; (d) sampling the state of the first pin according to a software programmable delay after the stimulus was applied; (e) changing the software programmable delay in a predetermined manner based on the state sampled during step (d); and (f) repeating steps (a)-(e) until the output delay time is determined.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
79 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including circuit means to stage pin stimulation patterns for simultaneous presentation of the pin stimulation patterns to the pins connected to the integrated circuit and for simultaneous presentation of the pin stimulation patterns with pin stimulation patterns of other multi-channel pin driver integrated circuits.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
79 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including circuit means to stage pin stimulation patterns for simultaneous presentation of the pin stimulation patterns to the pins connected to the integrated circuit and for simultaneous presentation of the pin stimulation patterns with pin stimulation patterns of other multi-channel pin driver integrated circuits.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
68 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including one shared data path for both programming internal control registers of the integrated circuit and for providing pin stimulation pattern data to the integrated circuit from circuitry of the hardware modeling system.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
68 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including one shared data path for both programming internal control registers of the integrated circuit and for providing pin stimulation pattern data to the integrated circuit from circuitry of the hardware modeling system.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
68 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including one shared data path for both reading internal control registers of the integrated circuit and for providing pin stimulation pattern data to the integrated circuit from circuitry of the hardware modeling system.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim
68 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including one shared data path for both reading internal control registers of the integrated circuit and for providing pin stimulation pattern data to the integrated circuit from circuitry of the hardware modeling system.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim
44 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including circuitry for error checking incoming pins stimulation patterns.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim
44 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including circuitry for error checking incoming pins stimulation patterns.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim
20 words
The multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit as recited in claim 101, wherein the error checking circuitry performs parity error checks.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim
50 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including a strobe input for use in determining the sampling times for measuring output delays.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim
50 words
A multi-channel pin driver integrated circuit of a hardware modeling system for stimulating at least a portion of the pins of an electronic device or circuitry electrically coupled to the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including a strobe input for use in determining the sampling times for measuring output delays.
Claim 165
Independent Claim
144 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system of restoring an internal state of an electronic device or circuitry having at least one I/O pin, the I/O pin being electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, comprising the steps of: (a) storing a history sequence of stimulation patterns for the I/O pin in memory means with at least one stimulation pattern of the history sequence for the I/O pin being stored in a single bit of the memory means; (b) retrieving from the memory means at least one stimulation pattern of the history sequence for the I/O pin; (c) presenting the retrieved I/O pin stimulation pattern or patterns to the I/O pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) until the entire history sequence is presented to the I/O pin.
Claim 166
Independent Claim
144 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system of restoring an internal state of an electronic device or circuitry having at least one I/O pin, the I/O pin being electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, comprising the steps of: (a) storing a history sequence of stimulation patterns for the I/O pin in memory means with at least one stimulation pattern of the history sequence for the I/O pin being stored in a single bit of the memory means; (b) retrieving from the memory means at least one stimulation pattern of the history sequence for the I/O pin; (c) presenting the retrieved I/O pin stimulation pattern or patterns to the I/O pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) until the entire history sequence is presented to the I/O pin.
Claim 167
Independent Claim
145 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system of restoring an internal state of an electronic device or circuitry having at least one I/O pin, the I/O pin being electronically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, comprising the steps of: (a) storing a history sequence of stimulation patterns for the I/O pin in memory means in a plurality of memory means bits, the number of bits being used being less than twice the number of stimulation patterns for the I/O pin; (b) retrieving from the memory means at least one stimulation pattern of the history sequence for the I/O pin; (c) presenting the retrieved I/O pin stimulation pattern or patterns to the I/O pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) until the entire history sequence is presented to the pin.
Claim 168
Independent Claim
145 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system of restoring an internal state of an electronic device or circuitry having at least one I/O pin, the I/O pin being electronically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, comprising the steps of: (a) storing a history sequence of stimulation patterns for the I/O pin in memory means in a plurality of memory means bits, the number of bits being used being less than twice the number of stimulation patterns for the I/O pin; (b) retrieving from the memory means at least one stimulation pattern of the history sequence for the I/O pin; (c) presenting the retrieved I/O pin stimulation pattern or patterns to the I/O pin with the pin driver of the hardware modeling system; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) until the entire history sequence is presented to the pin.
Claim 169
Independent Claim
243 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system of restoring an internal state of an electronic device or circuitry having pins electrically coupled to pin drivers of the hardware modeling system and at least one I/O pin that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, comprising the steps of: (a) presenting a history sequence of stimulation patterns to the pins of the electronic device or circuitry with the pin drivers of the hardware modeling system; (b) determining the state of the I/O pin; (c) embedding in the history sequence a stimulation pattern which will cause the pin driver of the hardware modeling system connected to the I/O pin to drive high when said pattern of the history sequence is again presented regardless of the logic state of simulated circuitry connected to the I/O pin in a design under simulation if the state of the I/O pin was determined in step (b) to be a driving high state; and (d) embedding in the history sequence a pin stimulation pattern which will cause the pin driver of the hardware modeling system connected to the I/O pin to drive in a low state when said pattern of the history sequence is again presented regardless of the logic state of a simulated circuitry connected to the I/O pin in a design under simulation if the state of the I/O pin was determined in step (b) to be a driving low state.
Claim 170
Independent Claim
243 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system of restoring an internal state of an electronic device or circuitry having pins electrically coupled to pin drivers of the hardware modeling system and at least one I/O pin that is electrically coupled to a pin driver of the hardware modeling system, comprising the steps of: (a) presenting a history sequence of stimulation patterns to the pins of the electronic device or circuitry with the pin drivers of the hardware modeling system; (b) determining the state of the I/O pin; (c) embedding in the history sequence a stimulation pattern which will cause the pin driver of the hardware modeling system connected to the I/O pin to drive high when said pattern of the history sequence is again presented regardless of the logic state of simulated circuitry connected to the I/O pin in a design under simulation if the state of the I/O pin was determined in step (b) to be a driving high state; and (d) embedding in the history sequence a pin stimulation pattern which will cause the pin driver of the hardware modeling system connected to the I/O pin to drive in a low state when said pattern of the history sequence is again presented regardless of the logic state of a simulated circuitry connected to the I/O pin in a design under simulation if the state of the I/O pin was determined in step (b) to be a driving low state.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim
61 words
A hardware modeling system for stimulating and sensing a response of electronic devices or circuitry to the stimulus, the electronic device or circuitry being electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the improvement being that the presence and type of electronic device or circuitry is determined automatically when the electronic device or circuitry is connected to a powered hardware modeling system.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim
61 words
A hardware modeling system for stimulating and sensing a response of electronic devices or circuitry to the stimulus, the electronic device or circuitry being electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the improvement being that the presence and type of electronic device or circuitry is determined automatically when the electronic device or circuitry is connected to a powered hardware modeling system.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim
44 words
A hardware modeling system for stimulating and sensing a response of electronic devices or circuitry to the stimulus, the improvement being that the hardware modeling system has fixturing means for connecting an electronic device or circuitry to the hardware modeling system that is powered.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim
44 words
A hardware modeling system for stimulating and sensing a response of electronic devices or circuitry to the stimulus, the improvement being that the hardware modeling system has fixturing means for connecting an electronic device or circuitry to the hardware modeling system that is powered.
Claim 175
Independent Claim
39 words
An apparatus for connecting an electronic device or circuitry to a hardware modeling system, comprising fixturing means that has matched length traces connecting pins of the electronic device or circuitry to pin electronics circuitry of the hardware modeling system.
Claim 176
Independent Claim
39 words
An apparatus for connecting an electronic device or circuitry to a hardware modeling system, comprising fixturing means that has matched length traces connecting pins of the electronic device or circuitry to pin electronics circuitry of the hardware modeling system.
Claim 177
Independent Claim
67 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for generating a portion of an electronic device or circuitry timing specification, the electronic device or circuitry being electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the method comprising measuring output delays of pins of the electrical device or circuitry coupled to the hardware modeling system, in response to stimulus, and deriving the timing specification from the output delays.
Claim 178
Independent Claim
67 words
A method for use in a hardware modeling system for generating a portion of an electronic device or circuitry timing specification, the electronic device or circuitry being electrically coupled to the hardware modeling system, the method comprising measuring output delays of pins of the electrical device or circuitry coupled to the hardware modeling system, in response to stimulus, and deriving the timing specification from the output delays.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim
68 words
A hardware modeling system for stimulating and sensing a response of electronic devices or circuitry to the stimulus, the hardware modeling system having a plurality of electronic devices or circuitry electrically coupled thereto, the improvement being that a fixturing means of the hardware modeling system provides a plurality of different power supply voltages to accommodate connections of electronic devices or circuitry that operate at different power supply voltages.
Claim 180
Dependent Claim
68 words
A hardware modeling system for stimulating and sensing a response of electronic devices or circuitry to the stimulus, the hardware modeling system having a plurality of electronic devices or circuitry electrically coupled thereto, the improvement being that a fixturing means of the hardware modeling system provides a plurality of different power supply voltages to accommodate connections of electronic devices or circuitry that operate at different power supply voltages.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1997-10-03 | 1998-04-04 | 1998-10-04 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2001-10-03 | 2002-04-04 | 2002-10-04 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2005-10-03 | 2006-04-04 | 2006-10-04 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |