Title :
A complete strategy for testing an on-chip multiprocessor architecture
Author_Institution :
Nat. Polytech. Inst., Grenoble, France
Abstract :
The article proposes an approach that divides testing into three phases: router testing, RAM block testing, and distributed processor testing. This test strategy was implemented for the on-chip multiprocessor architecture of a fine-grain, massively parallel machine developed in 1995 at the National Polytechnic Institute of Grenoble. The hierarchical strategy minimizes the entire architecture´s test cost by avoiding unnecessary testing. For example, testing a processor that is inaccessible because its router is faulty or that has a faulty local RAM is useless. Furthermore, a fault-free RAM cannot be used if the corresponding node router is faulty
Keywords :
computer testing; multiprocessing systems; network routing; parallel architectures; parallel machines; random-access storage; RAM block testing; distributed processor testing; fine-grain massively parallel machine; on-chip multiprocessor architecture testing; router testing; Access protocols; Circuit testing; Complexity theory; Computer architecture; Costs; Delay; Process design; Read-write memory; Routing; System recovery;
Journal_Title :
Design & Test of Computers, IEEE