What Is Circuit Emulation?

Communicating with fast processor chips require a good debugging tool.

Communicating with a fast processor microchip within a complicated electronic device, such as a computer or ATM, requires a way to see and alter the workings of that microchip alone for proper troubleshooting.

Function

Circuit emulation utilizes an ICE, or In-Circuit Emulator, to take the virtual place of a microchip within the printed circuit board to give the technician the ability to control the steps the chip is making to complete a circuit instruction.

Significance

By using circuit emulation, the technician can pinpoint problems with an electronic device, and adjust or replace elements in the circuitry design as needed. This contributes to the productivity of the technician and device, as well as saving money.

Developments

In the past, actual processor chips were pulled from the board, allowing the positioning of an emulator cable into the circuit. Currently, with smaller, machine-soldered components, adapters have been made to attach to the chip and interrupt its control, giving it over to the technician in charge of the emulation.

References

• The Ganssle Group: Beginner's Corner - In-Circuit-Emulators
• Direct Insight: In-Circuit Emulators (ICE)