Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
Method of debugging a processor

Abstract:

Methods for debugging a processor based on executing a randomly created and randomly executed executable on a fabricated processor. The executable may execute via startup firmware. By implementing randomization at multiple levels in the testing of the processor, coupled with highly specific test generation constraint rules, highly focused tests on a micro-architectural feature are implemented while at the same time applying a high degree of random permutation in the way it stresses that specific feature. This allows for the detection and diagnosis of errors and bugs in the processor that elude traditional testing methods. The processor Once the errors and bugs are detected and diagnosed, the processor can then be redesigned to no longer produce the anomalies. By eliminating the errors and bugs in the processor, a processor with improved computational efficiency and reliability can be fabricated.