ONLINE FAULT-DETECTION FOR BUS-BASED FIELD-PROGRAMMABLE GATE ARRAYS

We introduce a technique for on-line built-in self-testing (BIST) of b us-based held programmable gate arrays (FPGA's), This system detects d eviations from the intended functionality of an FPGA without using spe cial-purpose hardware, hardware external to the device, and without in terrupting system operation. Such a system would be useful for mission -critical applications with resource constraints. The system solves th ese problems through an on-line fault scanning methodology. A device's internal resources are configured to test for faults. Testing scans a cross an FPGA, checking a section at a time. Simulation on a model FPG A supports the viability and effectiveness of such a system.