ARM will ship modeling and simulation tools this month that enable fast virtual prototyping of embedded Linux systems. The RealView Real Time System Model will ship initially for the ARM1176JZ(F)-S core, with other ARM11 and CorTex plugins to follow. The tool can boot Linux “in a few seconds,” ARM says.

The RealView Real Time System Models will be available initially as stand-alone tools, and will later be integrated as plugins for ARM's RealView toolsuite for SoC (system-on-chip) developers. Additionally, ARM will enhance its MaxCore core design tools for architecture licensees with extended modeling capabilities.

According to ARM, the RealView Real Time System Model for the ARM1176JZ(F)-S processor executes most code at more than 100 MIPS (million instructions per second) when run on a 3GHz PC under Windows. The tool supports target user interfaces such as LCD displays, keyboards, and input devices, and the technology is particularly suited to the development and verification of application code and OS porting, ARM says.

The company says it is also upgrading its processor-centric MaxCore tools with a graphical design entry tool that describes CPUs and peripheral components in the “LISA+” language. Processor and system models from MaxCore tools can be directly imported into the SystemC-compliant MaxSim tool and combined with other models of the MaxLib library for detailed benchmarking and system analysis, according to ARM.

“More and more ARM Partners are demanding system modeling well in advance of any hardware development. Therefore, fast and true-to-design simulation technology is critical to the reduction of semiconductor time-to-market,” said Vojin Zivojnovic, VP ESL Tools, ARM. “With more emphasis on simulation in the design cycle, it is critical that designers push for industry standards for modeling. ARM will help achieve this goal through active public promotion of its fast, robust, cycle-based SystemC interfaces, and promotion of LISA+ technologies for core and systems modeling.”

Availability

The RealView Real Time System Model for the ARM1176JZ(F)-S processor is expected to be available at the end of this month through ARM's distribution channels.

 
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