Device and method for debugging systems controlled by microprocessors

摘要

A device and method for interactively debugging a system controlled by a microprocessor. The device continuously monitors the signals passed along the system bus, watching for signals that match interactively defined break conditions and trace conditions. When a breakpoint condition is satisfied, the device causes the system's microprocessor to execute debug code, which either may mediate interactive control of the system by the user or may initiate the execution of a software patch. When a trace condition is satisfied, the device initiates tracing of bus activity. The device is controlled by the user using conventional interactive interface means such as a video terminal or a personal computer.