A scheme for vertical migration of algorithms and functions with complex sequencing structure from software through firmware into microcoded VLSI structures is discussed. The expected benefits of migration are gains in speed, reliability, and stability. The scheme employs a migration model that is based on microcode modularity and is supported by a hardware microcontroller with enhanced sequencing capability. The basic idea is to capture, using effective compilation techniques, the explicit or implicit sequencing structure of a function. Migration is then effected by sequencing calls into a library of microcode modules of a target machine architecture. The modularity of the migration system is well suited for generating VLSI microcode. The experimental results from an environment consisting of several firmware development tools show substantial time performance improvements in comparison to software implementations. Comparisons to traditional migration approaches indicate that the proposed scheme is faster and requires less memory space for the migration of software algorithms into firmware.>

Intel requires the use of a direct-access test scheme in embedded-core or block-based ASIC (application-specific integrated-circuit) designs. This scheme provides for separate testing of individual block or core cells using proven test vectors. The authors discuss the design modifications for block cells with low pin counts, user application blocks, and large cores with high pin counts. The implementation and verification of the direct-access test scheme in a block- or core-based embedded ASIC design are also briefly described.>