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Altera_Forum's avatar
Altera_Forum
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15 years ago

SignalTap II or In-System Sources Probes Editor

Hi,

I have just upgraded to version 10.1 of QuartusII. I can see a new test interface "In-System Sources Probes Editor". I have always used the SignalTap II for debugging.

Can anyone tell me what is better to use for new designs? I have read about the new interface and is it correct that its strength is that it is possible to generate test patterns to input pins?

Regards,

Morten

4 Replies

  • Altera_Forum's avatar
    Altera_Forum
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    15 years ago

    is Sources and Probes really that new of a feature? to me they have slightly different applications.

    Sources and Probes is great for board bring up to toggle outputs and read inputs without writing any HDL (besides a port map). it is also useful for emulating push buttons or similiar signals

    SignalTap is "read only" but has simple and complex triggers. it can buffer a large amount of data which is then read out by JTAG which is really useful for in system debug
  • Altera_Forum's avatar
    Altera_Forum
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    15 years ago

    --- Quote Start ---

    is Sources and Probes really that new of a feature? to me they have slightly different applications.

    Sources and Probes is great for board bring up to toggle outputs and read inputs without writing any HDL (besides a port map). it is also useful for emulating push buttons or similiar signals

    SignalTap is "read only" but has simple and complex triggers. it can buffer a large amount of data which is then read out by JTAG which is really useful for in system debug

    --- Quote End ---

    Hi,

    keep in mind tha tyou have to build-in the "Source and Probe" instance directly in your source code by yourself. For signaltap you don't have to change your source code.

    Kind regards

    GPK
  • Altera_Forum's avatar
    Altera_Forum
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    15 years ago

    Thanks for your replies. I think I got a better understanding of the differences between the two.