JTAG Maps vs. Ansys PowerArtist

JTAG Maps™, a user-friendly extension for Altium, enables engineers to efficiently evaluate the testing capabilities offered by JTAG devices integrated into their designs. Previously, engineers dedicated significant time to manually marking boundary-scan nets within a design to assess their coverage. The boundary scan device model files, known as BSDLs, play an essential role in the JTAG and boundary scanning process by specifying which pins can be manipulated through JTAG. JTAG Maps supports BSDL models and includes an option to 'assume scanner covered.' While many users may opt for the Altium coverage report provided by JTAG Maps, there is also an option to import a more comprehensive analysis. Additionally, data can be exported to JTAG ProVision for in-depth evaluation, allowing engineers to gain further insights. Subsequently, a straightforward message file that encompasses complete fault-coverage details can be re-imported into JTAG Maps for visualization and highlighting purposes. This streamlined process significantly reduces the time engineers need to spend on testing assessments.

Ansys PowerArtist is recognized as the premier RTL design-for-power solution favored by leading low-power semiconductor companies, aiding in the early detection and mitigation of power issues. This innovative platform boasts features such as physically-aware RTL power precision, tools for interactive debugging of power-related challenges, and methodologies driven by analysis aimed at reducing power consumption, alongside unique metrics to assess both power efficiency and vector coverage. Furthermore, it supports swift power profiling grounded in real-world workloads and guarantees a seamless transition from RTL to maintaining the integrity of the physical power grid. The specially crafted physically-aware modeling capabilities of PowerArtist empower semiconductor firms to achieve trustworthy and rapid RTL power accuracy, which aids in making informed decisions at the earliest phases of design. Relying solely on synthesis to evaluate power consumption can prove to be too late; therefore, design teams utilize PowerArtist to meticulously break down and scrutinize power usage, effectively identify inefficient RTL code, and detect any unnecessary toggles present in the design. Additionally, the platform allows for the rapid profiling of extensive cycles, ensuring optimal performance throughout the development process. This all-encompassing methodology not only boosts overall efficiency but also significantly simplifies the design workflow, leading to faster project completion and enhanced product quality.