Abstract: Verification of external interfaces of cores on system-on-chip (SOC) designs frequently entails the purchase of costly standardized software models to test the external interfaces. Typically, the standardized models provide more functionality than is needed. Instead of standardized models, test models may be developed and utilized, but this also incurs cost and delay. The present invention provides an efficient and economical alternative. A mirror interface, or copy of the external interface undergoing verification, is used with a standardized control mechanism to verify the external interface. Because all interface I/O connections can thereby be utilized, a cost-effective and highly reusable way of verifying such interfaces is provided.

Abstract: A method for using verification software for testing a system-on-chip (SOC) design including an embedded processor. The verification software is used to generate and apply test cases to stimulate the SOC design in simulation; the results are observed and used to de-bug the design. Verification of a SOC design which includes an embedded processor is typically very slow. To provide for a speed-up mode of verification in such a case, in the method of the present invention, verification software is partitioned into higher-level control code and lower-level device driver code. The higher-level code performs such functions as decision-making, test initialization, test randomization, multi-tasking, and comparison of test results with expected results. The low-level code interfaces with a core being simulated, to apply the test case generated by the upper-level code on a hardware level of operations.

Abstract: A digital frequency multiplier is provided that continues to adjust its multiplied frequency after the desired multiplied frequency is reached, that can be tested during operation and that is easily scalable. The digital frequency multiplier comprises a frequency detector, a frequency adjuster and a ring oscillator (RO). The frequency detector is configured for receiving a reference frequency and an RO output frequency, and for continuously monitoring a difference between the reference frequency and the RO output frequency. Based on the continuously monitored difference, the frequency detector continuously outputs an adjusting signal to the frequency adjuster. In response thereto, the frequency adjuster outputs selection data to the RO that adjusts the oscillation frequency of the RO, and thus the multiplied frequency of the digital frequency multiplier. Testable and growable logic circuitry are provided within the RO that allow the digital frequency multiplier to be tested during operation and easily scaled.

Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting and hangering an open-necked garment such as a shirt comprises an inspection station having a garment form in the shape of the shoulders of a shirt, and lighting fixtures positioned beneath the garment form so that when a shirt is placed on the garment form the lighting fixtures shine light from the interior of the shirt through the shirt to permit visual inspection of tears, holes, stains and other defects. Hangers are automatically fed to the inspection station immediately adjacent the garment form with the hook portion of the hanger extending through the open neck of the shirt. Once the inspection operation is completed, an automatic hanger take-away device removes the hanger, and the shirt draped over the hanger and garment form, from the inspection station for further processing.

Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting and hangering laundered pairs of pants comprises an inspection station, a hangering station and a take-away device. The inspection station includes a pants gripper which supports a pair of pants at the waist with the legs in an extended position to permit simultaneous visual and touch inspection of the pants, after which the pant legs are folded along their creases on a folding table. Hangers are delivered one at a time to a hanger catch plate at one end of the folding table which supports the hangers slightly beneath the plane of the tabletop. The pant legs are slid along the folding table and partially draped over the end of the table and the bottom wire of the hanger supported on the hanger catch plate. A take-away device contacts the hook portion of the hanger and lifts it upwardly, carrying the pants therewith, and then discharges the hangered pants onto a take-away rail for movement to another station for further processing.