Re: Microprocessor question

From: Rich Grise (rich_at_example.net)
Date: 10/26/04 

Date: Tue, 26 Oct 2004 22:21:35 GMT

On Tue, 26 Oct 2004 15:58:38 -0500, gary s wrote:

> I have a question that I hope someone on here can answer, or give me
> an insight:
>
> 1. Is there any way to do a quick check on a microprocessor to
> determine if it's "alive"? I realize manufacturers use million-dollar
> testers for functional testing, but is there a way to "generically" do
> a quick check on the bench using standard test equipment?

Use a scope. The clock should be clocking, and the address, data, and
control lines will all be going up and down, assuming it's executing
something.

Issue a reset, and you should see some kind of change in the waveforms.

>
> 2. Ditto for speed? How can one determine if a microprocessor will run
> at its marked speed on a bench?

Build up the circuit, and test it. I think it's extremely unlikely that
you'll get one that doesn't meet its own spec.

If you're at the chip factory, and they're chips coming off the line,
then shame on you! ;-)

>
> 3. If there is a "generic" feature set that is common to most
> microprocessors, and what might that be?

More or less - they have all the features of a processor. Clock,
address, data, ALU, some control logic. Other than that, it's a
free-for-all. ;-)

>
> 4. How can one check for this - as far as hardware and software
> requirements?

In-circuit test is the only way to really verify the whole thing,
and this shouldn't be in the end item, but a dedicated bench
fixture with some diagnostic firmware and misc. peripherals and
stuff, which will depend on your needs there.

> I guess I am looking for a "generic" test setup that can do something
> like a bare-bones electrical QC on different microprocessor families.
>
I'm afraid each family will need its own tester, or at least personality
modules.

I don't even know if any manufacturers sell different versions that are
plug-compatible, except maybe versions of the HC11 or so. But from
one manufacturer to another, they're different enough that this would
be a wild goose chase.

> Thanks for your help.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful.

Good Luck!
Rich

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