A generic architecture model based-methodology for an efficient design of hardware/software application-specific multiprocessor System-on-Chip

Abstract

In this paper, we describe a methodology and flow for systematic design of application specific multiprocessor system-on-chip (mp-SoC). Our approach is based on a generic architecture platform which is used as a model throughout the design process. This model is modular, flexible and scalable, making it possible to cover a large application field. A complete design flow from system specification to register transfer level (rtl) consists of two principal stages. The first stage is architecture exploration where the system-level performance estimation method is required to find the best system architecture. The goal of this stage is to fix the optimal architectural parameters specific to the application. The second stage is the systematic design flow. The architectural parameters are used in this stage to produce thertl architecture. This paper focuses on the definition of the architecture model and the systematic design flow that was now automated. The feasibility and effectiveness of this approach are illustrated by several telecommunication applications.