6. Implementation and Optimization of Scan Chains for Improved Testability
Scan chains are essential for achieving effective design for testability (DFT) in digital circuits. They simplify fault detection in complex systems, yet their implementation poses challenges like increased complexity and power consumption. Optimizing scan chain architectures through best practices and techniques can enhance testing efficiency while minimizing overheads.
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What we have learnt
- Scan chains improve access to internal states for testing digital circuits.
- Balancing scan chain length and performance is crucial for optimizing testability.
- Techniques like power gating and redundancy can enhance fault coverage and reduce testing time.
Key Concepts
- -- Scan Chain
- A series of connected flip-flops that allow for shifting in test vectors and shifting out test results, facilitating testability.
- -- Scan FlipFlop
- A flip-flop modified to function in a scan chain, typically including multiplexers for selection between normal and scan operations.
- -- Multiplexer (MUX)
- A device used to switch between different input signals, crucial for controlling whether flip-flops operate in normal mode or scan mode.
- -- Test Pattern Compression
- A technique used to reduce the number of bits that need to be sent through the scan chain, thereby minimizing power consumption during testing.
- -- Power Gating
- A technique used to turn off power to certain parts of a circuit during testing to reduce power consumption in unused areas.
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