Rapid Post-Map Insertion of Embedded Logic Analyzers for Xilinx FPGAs

A rapid post-map insertion of an embedded logic analyzer is discussed. The proposed technique makes use of otherwise unused resources in an already-mapped circuit and does not disturb the original placement and routing of the circuit. Using this technique, designers can add debugging circuitry to existing circuits and quickly modify the set of of observed signals in just a few minutes instead of waiting for a recompile of their circuit. All tests were performed on a Xilinx Virtex-5 FPGA.