Seungyeon Yu, Samsung Electronics, Memory Division; Damin Son, Samsung Electronics, Memory Division
This paper discusses the verification method for microcode-based IP in SSD controller products. As memory products need higher performance, there are large portions of functions that benefit from microcode-centric design than traditional logic-based designs. The advantages of this shift include better flexibility, simpler handling of complex tasks, the ability to reuse code, cost savings, improved performance, and broader compatibility. Microcode is a set of instructions for processor tasks. It allows changes in hardware functions without major redesigns, making design updates faster and easier. But this comes with a greater cost of possible bugs and it's vital to ensure the design is accurate. So, this paper introduces a new way to verify the designs in simulation tests. We explain about how to set up test scenarios and create checkers for functional coverage, emphasizing the transition to microcode. Because microcode is different from regular RTL code, we need a novel way to measure its coverage. We introduce a method for this and also suggest a way to detect and remove any redundant code, aiding in streamlining the design process.
