SystemVerilog Verification

Using

UVM 1.0
VCS 2011.03
Synopsys Customer Education Services

2011 Synopsys, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Synopsys 40-I-054-SSG-001

Introductions
n

Name

Company

Job Responsibilities

EDA Experience

Main Goal(s) and Expectations for this Course

Facilities

Building Hours

Emergency

Phones

EXIT

Messages

Restrooms

Smoking

Meals

Recycling

Please turn off cell phones and pagers

3

Course Materials
n

Student Workbook

Lab Book

Reference Materials

Course Evaluations

Workshop Goal

Acquire the skills to implement a UVM testbench to verify

Verilog/VHDL designs with coverage-driven random stimulus

Target Audience

Design or Verification engineers

writing SystemVerilog testbenches
to verify Verilog or VHDL designs

Workshop Prerequisites
n

You should have experience in the following areas:

l
l
l

Familiarity with a UNIX text editor

Programming skills in SystemVerilog
Debugging experience with SystemVerilog

Agenda: Day 1
DAY
1

OOP Inheritance Review

UVM Overview

Modeling Transactions

Creating Stimulus Sequences

Agenda: Day 2
DAY
2

Component Configuration & Factory

TLM Communication

Scoreboard & Coverage

UVM Callback

Agenda: Day 3
DAY
3

Sequence Library/Virtual Sequencer

10

More on Phasing

11

Register Abstraction Layer

12

Summary

10

What Is the Device Under Test?

A router:
16 x 16 crosspoint switch

din [15:0]

dout [15:0]

frame_n[15:0]
valid_n [15:0]

frameo_n [15:0]

router

valido_n [15:0]

reset_n
clock

11

A Functional Perspective

frame_n[0]
valid_n[0]
din[0]

inputs

outputs

port

port
0

frameo_n[0]
valido_n[0]
dout[0]

partial view

12

The Router Description

n

Single positive-edge clock

Input and output data are serial (1 bit / clock)

Packets are sent through in variable length:

l

Each packet is composed of two parts

Header
u Payload
u

Packets can be routed from any input port to any

output port on a packet-by-packet basis

No internal buffering or broadcasting (1-to-N)

13

Input Packet Structure

n

frame_n:
l
l

din:
l

Falling edge indicates first bit of packet

Rising edge indicates last bit of packet
Header (destination address & padding bits) and payload

valid_n:
l

valid_n is low if payload bit is valid, high otherwise

clock
din[i]

A0

A1

A2

A3

valid_n[i]

d0

....

x dn-2 dn-1

frame_n[i]
dest. address

pad

payload

14

Output Packet Structure

n
n

Output activity is indicated by:

frameo_n, valido_n, and dout
Data is valid only when:
l
l

frameo_n output is low (except for last bit)

valido_n output is low

Header field is stripped

clock
dout[i]

valido_n[i]

d0

d1

d2

d3

dn-3

x dn-2 dn-1

x
x

frameo_n[i]

15

Reset Signal
n

While asserting reset_n, frame_n and valid_n

must be de-asserted

reset_n is asserted for at least one clock cycle

After de-asserting reset_n, wait for 15 clocks

before sending a packet through the router

clock
reset_n
frame_n[i]
valid_n[i]
15 clock cycles

16

Icons Used in this Workshop

Lab Exercise

Caution

Recommendation

Definition of
Acronyms

For Further Reference

Question

Under the Hood

Information

Group Exercise

17

18

Agenda: Day 1
DAY
1

OOP Inheritance Review

UVM Overview

Modeling Transactions

Creating Stimulus Sequences

19

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Use OOP inheritance to create new OOP classes

Use Inheritance to add new properties and

functionalities

Override methods in existing classes with

inherited methods using virtual methods and
polymorphism

20

Object Oriented Programming: Classes

n

Object-oriented programming
l
l

"class"

Vera, e, C++, SystemVerilog

Data and procedures together

Properties need not

be passed as arguments

class Packet
da
sa
data

function void display();

...
endfunction

crc

function int compute_crc();

...
endfunction

Data & procedures

encapsulated

Packet pkt = new();

[Link] = pkt.compute_crc();
[Link]();

21

Object Oriented Programming: Inheritance

n

Object-oriented programming
l
l

New classes derived from original (base) class

Inherits all contents of base class
class BadPacket extends Packet
da
sa

Packet

data
crc

BadPacket
bad

function void display();

...
endfunction
function int compute_crc();
...
endfunction

Packet

BadPacket

UML

Can override
methods
in base class

function int compute_crc();

[Link] = super.compute_crc();
if (bad) crc = ~crc;
Can call overridden
endfunction
behavior

22

Object Oriented Programming: Inheritance

n

Derived classes compatible with base class

l

Can reuse code

Base class

Packet pkt = new();

transmit(pkt);

Packet

BadPacket bad_pkt = new();

transmit(bad_pkt);

Use
$cast()

Compatible

BadPacket
Compatible

task transmit(Packet pkt);

...
endtask

Derived class

OK

pkt = bad_pkt;

Error

bad_pkt = pkt;

OK

$cast(bad_pkt, pkt);

23

OOP: Polymorphism
n

Which method gets called?

[Link] = p.compute_crc();
p

class BadPacket extends Packet

da
sa
data
crc
bad

function int compute_crc();

...
endfunction
function int compute_crc();
...
endfunction

Depends on
l
l

Type of handle p (e.g. Packet or BadPacket ?)

Whether compute_crc() is virtual or not
24

OOP: Polymorphism
n

If compute_crc() is not virtual

p

class BadPacket extends Packet

da
sa
data
crc
bad

function int compute_crc();

...
endfunction
function int compute_crc();
...
endfunction

Packet p = new();
BadPacket bp = new();
[Link] = p.compute_crc();
[Link] = bp.compute_crc();
transmit(p);
transmit(bp);

task transmit(Packet pkt);

[Link] = pkt.compute_crc();
...
endtask

25

OOP: Polymorphism
n

If compute_crc() is virtual
p

class BadPacket extends Packet

da
sa
data
crc
bad

virtual
function int compute_crc();
...
endfunction
virtual
function int compute_crc();
...
endfunction

Packet p = new();
BadPacket bp = new();
[Link] = p.compute_crc();
[Link] = bp.compute_crc();
transmit(p);
transmit(bp);

task transmit(Packet pkt);

[Link] = pkt.compute_crc();
...
endtask

26

OOP: Polymorphism
n

Trying to inject errors

protocol bfm = new(...);
repeat (100) begin
BadPacket bp = new();
[Link](bp);
end
pkt
class protocol;
class BadPacket extends packet
...
virtual task transmit(Packet pkt);
compute_crc()
[Link] = pkt.compute_crc();
...
If
compute_crc()
endtask
virtual
endclass

Guideline: methods should

be virtual

Can inject CRC errors

without modifying original code

27

Unit Objectives Review

You should now be able to:
n

Use OOP inheritance to create new OOP classes

Use Inheritance to add new properties an

functionalities

Override methods in existing classes with

inherited methods using virtual methods and
polymorphism

28

Appendix

Parameterized Class
Typedef Class
External Definition
Static Property and Method
Singleton Classes
Proxy Classes

29

Parameterized Classes
n

Written for a generic type

l

Type parameter passed at instantiation, just like

parameterized modules
Allows reuse of common code

program automatic test;

stack #(bit[31:0]) addr_stack;
pkt_stack;
stack #(packet)
initial begin
...
repeat(10) begin
packet pkt = new();
if(![Link]())
$finish;
[Link] = addr_stack.pop();
pkt_stack.push(pkt);
end
end
endprogram: test

class stack #(type T = int);

local T items[$];
function void push( T a );
...
function T pop( );
function int size(); ...
endclass: stack

30

typedef
n

Often need to use a class before declaration

l

e.g. two classes need handle to each other

typedef class S2;
class S1;
S2 inside_s1;
...
endclass: S1

This is a compile error

if typedef is missing

class S2;
S1 i_am_inside;
...
endclass: S2

Or, to simplify parameterized class usage

typedef stack #(bit[31:0]) stack32;
stack_pkt;
typedef stack #(packet)
program automatic test;
stack32
addr_stack;
stack_pkt
data_stack;

31

Methods Outside of the Class

n

The body of the class should fit on one screen

l

Show the properties, and method headers

Method bodies can go later in the file

l

Scope resolution operator :: separates class and method

name
class packet;
int da, sa, data[], crc;
extern virtual function void display(string prefix=);
extern virtual function int compute_crc();
endfunction
function void packet::display(string prefix=);
...
endfunction
function int packet::compute_crc();
...
endfunction

32

Static Property
n

How do I create a variable shared by all objects of a

class, but not make a global?

A static property is associated with the class

definition, not the object.
l

Can store meta-data, such as number of instances

constructed
Shared by all objects of that class

class packet;
static int count = 0;
int id;
function new();
id = count++;
endfunction
endclass

Using a id field can

help keep track of
transactions as they
flow through test

33

Static Method
n

Call a method without a handle

Can only access static properties

class packet;
static int count = 0;
int id;
static function void print_count();
$display(Created %0d packets, count);
endfunction

endclass

function void test::end_of_test();

packet::print_count();
...
endfunction

34

Singleton Classes
n

Used to define a global activity such as printing

or class factory

Only one instance of the singleton class exists

Contains only static properties and methods

class print;
static int err_count = 0, max_errors = 10;
static function void error (string msg);
$display(@%t: ERROR %s, $realtime, msg);
if (err_count++ > max_errors)
$finish;
endfunction

endclass
if (expect != actual)
print::error(Actual did not match expected);

35

Simple Proxy Class

n

Provides universal service routines like create()

class proxy_class#(type T=base);

typedef proxy_class#(T) this_type;
static this_type me = get();

// for coding convinience (not required)

// construct a static object of this proxy
// type at beginning of simulation

static function this_type get();

if (me == null) me = new(); return me;
endfunction
static function T create();
create = new(); class myclass extends base;
endfunction
typedef proxy_class#(myclass) proxy;
endclass
endclassclass anotherclass extends base;
typedef proxy_class#(anotherclass) proxy;
endclass
class environment;
myclass m_obj; anotherclass a_obj;
function new();
m_obj = myclass::proxy::create();
a_obj = anotherclass::proxy::create();
endfunction
endclass

36

Proxy Classes & Factory (1/5)

n

To create factory, two proxy class layers are needed:

l
l
l

Virtual proxy base class (this slide)

Proxy class (in a up coming slide)
Act as molds in factory

Virtual proxy wrapper class

l
l

Base proxy class type to enable OOP polymorphism

Declares abstracted interface methods for proxy services
Creating objects
u Get type name
u

virtual class proxy_base;

virtual function base create_object(string type_name);
return null;
endfunction
pure virtual function string get_typename();
endclass

37

Proxy Classes & Factory (2/5)

Factory class
n Provide creation of object on demand
n Maintain a registry of proxy objects
class factory;
static proxy_base registry[string];
static factory me = get();
static function factory get();
if (me == null) me = new(); return me;
endfunction
function void register(proxy_base proxy);
registry[proxy.get_typename()] = proxy;
endfunction
function base create_object_by_type(proxy_base proxy, string name);
proxy = find_override(proxy);
return proxy.create_object(name);
endfunction
// continued on next slide

38

Creating Proxy Classes & Factory (3/5)

Factory class continued
n

Maintains a registry of proxies to be replaced with

overridden proxies
l

If overridden, creates overridden objects

static string override[string];

Original proxy type

static function void override_type(string type_name,override_typename);

override[type_name] = override_typename;
To be replaced by overridden
endfunction

proxy

function proxy_base find_override(proxy_base proxy);

if ([Link](proxy.get_typename()))
return registry[override[proxy.get_typename()]];
return proxy;
endfunction
endclass

39

Creating Proxy Classes & Factory (4/5)

n

Proxy class
l
l
l

Implements the abstracted interface methods

Registers itself in factory
Create object using factory

class proxy_class#(type T=base, string Tname="none") extends proxy_base;

typedef proxy_class#(T, Tname) this_type; // for coding convinience (not
required)
static string type_name = Tname;
static this_type me = get();
static function this_type get();
factory f = factory::get(); if (me == null) me = new();
[Link](me);
return me;
Use factory to create
endfunction
object
static function T create(string name);
factory f = factory::get();
$cast(create, f.create_object_by_type(me, name));
endfunction
virtual function base create_object(string name);
T object_represented = new(name);
return object_represented;
endfunction
endclass
40

Creating Proxy Classes & Factory (5/5)

Why go through all these trouble?
n Test can use factory to override any object created
in environment without touching environment class
class modified extends myclass;
typedef proxy_class#(modified, "modified") proxy;
// other code not shown
endclass
program automatic test;
environment env;
initial begin
factory::override_type("myclass", "modified");
env = new();
// other code not shown
end

The override will cause a

class environment;
myclass m_obj; anotherclass a_obj;
modified class object to be
function new();
created instead of myclass
m_obj = myclass::proxy::create();
a_obj = anotherclass::proxy::create();
endfunction
endclass
41

42

Agenda: Day 1
DAY
1

OOP Inheritance Review

UVM Overview

Modeling Transactions

Creating Stimulus Sequences

43

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Describe the process of reaching verification

goals

Describe the UVM testbench architecture

Describe the different components of a UVM

testbench

Bring different components together to create a

UVM environment

44

Origin of UVM
e

eRM

uRM
SV

OVM

UVM

AVM

SC

System
C
TLM 1.0

VMM
1.0

SV

OV

System
C
TLM 2.0

VMM
1.2

RVM

45

Verification Goal
n

Ensure full conformance with specification:

l

Must avoid false passes

Testbench
Simulation
result
Pass

RTL code
Good

Bad(bug)

False pass
results in shipping
a bad design

???

Tape out!
Fail

Debug
testbench

Debug
RTL code

How do we achieve this goal?

46

Coverage-Driven Verification
n

Focus on uncovered areas

Trade-off authoring time for run-time

Progress measured using functional coverage

metrics
Productivity
gain

Coverage-Driven
Methodology

% Testcases

Goal

Directed
Methodology
Self-checking
random environment
development time

Time
47

Phases of Verification
Start with fully random environment. Continue
with more and more focused guided tests
Preliminary
Verification

Broad-Spectrum
Verification

Corner-case
Verification

% Coverage

Goal

Difficult to reach
Corner-case
Verification

Time
Build verification
environment

48

Run More Tests, Write Less Code

n

Environment and component classes rarely change

l
l
l

Sends good transactions as fast as possible

Keeps existing tests from breaking
Leave "hooks" so test can inject new behavior
u

Test extends testbench classes

l
l
l

Virtual methods, factories, callbacks

Add constraints to reach corner cases

Override existing classes for new functionality
Inject errors, delays with callbacks

Run each test with hundreds of seeds

49

The Testbench Environment/Architecture

n

SystemVerilog Testbench Structure

Testcase
Testcase
Testcase
Testcase

Creates
random
transactions

Process
transactions

Collection of testcases

Coverage
Sequencer

Driver

Test

Sequencer

Self Check

Bus
Monitor

Bus
Monitor

Driver

Reacts to
transactions
Interface

DUT

RTL

50

UVM Encourages Encapsulation for Reuse

n

Structure should be architected for reuse

Test instantiates
the environment
and modifies the
environment on a
testcase by
testcase basis
Agents, coverage
and scoreboard
should be
encapsulated in
an environment
Sequencer, driver
and monitor
associated with an
interface should be
encapsulated as
an agent for that
interface

Top Level Harness

Test

Environment
Master Agent

Coverage

Sequencer

Driver

Slave Agent
Sequencer

Scoreboard

Bus
Monitor

Bus
Monitor

Driver

DUT
51

UVM Structure is Scalable

n

Agents are the building blocks across test/projects

Top Level Harness

Test

Environment
Scoreboard
Master Agent

Passive
A
g
e
n
t

Sequencer

Driver

Bus
Monitor

DUTA

Coverage
Scoreboard

Slave Agent
Slave Agent
Slave Agent
Slave Agent
Sequencer
Sequencer
Sequencer
Sequencer
Bus
Driver
Bus
MonitorDriver
Bus
Monitor Driver
Bus
Monitor Driver
Monitor

Bus
Monitor

DUTB
DUTB
DUTB
DUTB
52

Structural Support in UVM

n

Structural & Behavioral

l

uvm_component
u

uvm_test

uvm_env
u uvm_agent
u

uvm_sequencer
u uvm_driver
u uvm_monitor
u uvm_scoreboard
u

Test
Environment
Master Agent

Slave Agent

Coverage

Sequencer

Sequencer
Scoreboard

Driver

Bus
Monitor

Bus
Monitor

Driver

Communication
l
l

Top Level Harness

uvm_*_port
uvm_*_socket

DUT

Data
l

uvm_sequence_item

53

Component Phasing
n

The run phase task executes concurrently with the

scheduled run time phase tasks

Build Time

Run Time

Run-Time
Tasks

Cleanup
54

Hello World Example

n
n

UVM tests are derived from uvm_test class

Execution of test is done via global task run_test()
program automatic test;
Test
import uvm_pkg::*;

base class

class hello_world extends uvm_test;

DUT functional
verification
code resides in
one of the task
phases

`uvm_component_utils(hello_world)

function new(string name, uvm_component parent);

[Link](name, parent);
endfunction
virtual task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
`uvm_info(TEST, Hello World!, UVM_MEDIUM);
endtask
endclass

Execute test

Create and
register test name

Message

initial
run_test();
endprogram

55

Compile and Simulate

n
n

Compile with ntb_opt uvm-1.0 switch

Specify test to run with +UVM_TESTNAME switch

[Link]
program automatic test;
import uvm_pkg::*;
class hello_world extends uvm_test;
test name
`uvm_component_utils(hello_world)
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
[Link](name, parent);
endfunction
virtual task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
`uvm_info(TEST, Hello World!, UVM_MEDIUM);
endtask
Compile with vcs: (using UVM in VCS installation)
endclass
vcs sverilog ntb_opts uvm-1.0 [Link]
initial
Simulate with:
run_test();
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=hello_world
endprogram
UVM_INFO @ 0: reporter [RNTST] Running test hello_world ...
UVM_INFO ./[Link](10) @ 0: uvm_test_top [TEST] Hello World!

56

Inner Workings of UVM Simulation

n

Macro registers the class in factory registry table

class hello_world extends uvm_test;
`uvm_component_utils(hello_world)

UVM package creates a global instance

of uvm_root class named uvm_top

Registry table
hello_world
simv
uvm_top

import uvm_pkg::*;

When run_test() executes, uvm_top

uvm_test_top
retrieves +UVM_TESTNAME from registry and creates a
child component called uvm_test_top

initial
n During
run_test();
execution,
parent component
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=hello_world

manages children components

phase execution

build
connect
end_of_elaboration
start_of_simulation
run*
extract
check
report
final
57

1
2
3
4

User Control of Reporting and Filtering

Print messages with UVM macros

Failure messages
are always
displayed

`uvm_fatal(CFGERR, Fatal message);

`uvm_error(RNDERR, Error message);
`uvm_warning(WARN, Warning message);
`uvm_info(NORMAL, Normal message, UVM_MEDIUM);
`uvm_info(TRACE, Tracing execution, UVM_HIGH);
`uvm_info(FULL, Debugging operation, UVM_FULL);
`uvm_info(DEBUG, Verbose message, UVM_DEBUG);

More verbose

Info messages need

to specify verbosity

Verbosity filter defaults to UVM_MEDIUM

l

User can modify run-time filter via +UVM_VERBOSITY switch

simv +UVM_VERBOSITY=UVM_DEBUG +UVM_TESTNAME=hello_world

58

Key Component Concepts: Parent-Child

n

Parent-child relationships
l
l
l

Phase execution order

l

Set up at component creation

Establishes component phasing execution order
Establishes component search path for component
configuration and factory replacement
Logical hierarchy Not OOP or composition hierarchy
Each component follows
the same sequence of
phase execution

Search path allow tests to:

l
l

build
connect
end_of_elaboration
start_of_simulation
run*
extract
check
report
final

Search and configure components

Search and replace components in environment

59

Key Component Concepts: Logical Hierarchy

class test_base extends uvm_test;
environment env;
`uvm_component_utils(test_base)
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
env = environment::type_id::create(env, this);
Establish parentendfunction
endclass
class environment extends uvm_env; child
relationship at
component comp;
`uvm_component_utils(environment) creation
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
comp = component::type_id::create("comp", this);
endfunction
Set
endclass
class component extends uvm_component;
Parent
`uvm_component_utils(component)
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
[Link](name, parent);
Parent
endfunction
handle
virtual task component_task();
endclass

simv
uvm_top
run_test()
uvm_test_top
uvm_test_top
env
env
comp
comp

60

Key Component Concepts: Phase

n

Parent-child relationship dictates

phase execution order
l

uvm_top
run_test()

Functions are executed bottom-up

u

simv

Except for build phase which is

executed top-down

uvm_test_top
uvm_test_top

Tasks are forked into concurrent

executing threads

env

run_test()

uvm_test_top

env

comp

build
connect
end_of_elaboration
start_of_simulation
run
extract
check
report
final

build
connect
end_of_elaboration
start_of_simulation
run
extract
check
report
final

bld
cnt
eoe
sos
run
ext
chk
rpt
fnl

bld
cnt
eoe
sos
run
ext
chk
rpt
fnl

env
comp
comp

61

Key Component Concepts: Search & Replace

class test_new extends test_base; ...
`uvm_component_utils(test_new)
Simulate with:
function void build_phase(uvm_phase);
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=test_new
super.build_phase(phase);
set_inst_override("[Link]", "component", "new_comp");
endfunction
Use parent-child relationship
endclass
simv

to do search and replace for

components

class environment extends uvm_env;

...
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
comp = component::type_id::create("comp", this);
endfunction
create() used
endclass
to build
class new_comp extends component;
component
`uvm_component_utils(new_comp)
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
virtual task component_task();
// modified component functionality
endtask
Modify
endclass
operation

uvm_top
run_test()
uvm_test_top
uvm_test_top
env
env
comp
comp
new_comp

4
3
2
1

62

Key UVM Elements (1/2)

n

TLM library classes

l

Classes for communication between components

Transaction class
l

Encapsulates stimulus data structure

class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;

Sequence class
l

Encapsulates transactions to be processed by driver

class packet_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(packet);

Sequencer class
l

Executes sequence and passes transactions to driver

typedef uvm_sequencer #(packet) packet_sequencer;

Driver class
l

Receives transaction from sequencer and drives DUT

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);

63

Key UVM Elements (2/2)

n

Agent class
l

Encapsulates sequencer, driver and monitor on a

per interface basis
class router_agent extends uvm_agent;

Environment class
l
l

Encapsulates all components of testbench

Connect components via TLM ports
class router_env extends uvm_env;

Test class
l
l

Encapsulates environment objects

Sets test-level configuration/modification
class test_base extends uvm_test;

64

Simple Example of Key UVM Elements

n

Test
l

Environment
l

uvm_sequencer

Data class
l

Test
Environment
Agent

uvm_agent

Sequencer
l

uvm_env

Agent
l

uvm_test

uvm_sequence
uvm_sequence_item

Sequencer
Sequence

default_sequence

Sequence_item
Driver

Driver (BFM)
l

uvm_driver

Communication (TLM)
For simplicity, monitor and other components are left off

65

Key UVM Testbench Elements: TLM

n

Communication between testbench components

l
l
l

Analysis ports for passive communication

l
l
l

Unidirectional or bidirectional communication

Blocking and non-blocking interfaces
Details in TLM Unit
put() and get() functionality
Monitors, Scoreboards, Functional Coverage
Always non-blocking, Broadcasting
write() functionality
Agent

TLM Base Classes

l
l
l

Sequencer

uvm_*_port/_imp/export
uvm_*_fifo_*
uvm_*_socket
Many UVM components
have built-in TLM ports

default_sequence

Driver

66

Key UVM Element: Transaction Class

n

Declare stimulus properties

l

Enable all properties for randomization with rand

Use macros to create support infrastructure

Sequence
packet

class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;

rand bit[3:0] sa, da;
rand bit[7:0] payload[$];
constraint valid {[Link] inside {[2:100]};}
`uvm_object_utils_begin(packet)
Macro creates support methods:
`uvm_field_int(sa, UVM_ALL_ON)
`uvm_field_int(da, UVM_ALL_ON) copy(), print() etc.
`uvm_field_queue_int(payload, UVM_ALL_ON)
`uvm_object_utils_end
function new(string name = packet);
[Link](name);
endfunction
endclass

67

Key UVM Element: Sequence Class

n

Stimulus transactions are created inside a UVM

sequence extended from uvm_sequence class
Sequence must be typed for a specific sequence
item class

class packet_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(packet);

Registers
`uvm_object_utils(packet_sequence)
function new(string name = "packet_sequence"); sequence
[Link](name);
Sequence code
endfunction
packet_sequence
resides in body()
task body();
packet
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
repeat(10) begin
Randomize built-in transaction
`uvm_do(req);
object. Parent sequencer will output
end
transaction.
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
endtask
Use raise/drop objection
endclass

to stay in phase until

done

68

Key UVM Element: Sequencer Class

n

Use uvm_sequencer class

l

Contains a sequence descriptor ("default_sequence")

l

Parameterized to a chosen transaction class

Must be configured to reference a test sequence

Contains a built-in TLM port (seq_item_export)

l

Must be connected to a driver

typedef uvm_sequencer #(packet) packet_sequencer;

Must be typed for

a sequence item
class

Agent
packet_sequencer
default_sequence

Driver

69

Key UVM Element: Driver Class

n

Driver should extend from uvm_driver class

l

uvm_driver class has built-in sequence item handle

(req) and TLM port to communicate with the sequencer
Must be typed for
a sequence item
class

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);

`uvm_component_utils(driver)
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
[Link](name, parent);
endfunction
task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
forever begin
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
`uvm_info(DRVR, [Link](), UVM_MEDIUM);
seq_item_port.item_done();
end
endtask
Driver should implement
endclass

run phase to handle

sequences from all Run
Time task phases

Agent
packet_sequencer
default_sequence

driver

70

Key UVM Element: Agent Class

n

Encapsulated sequencer, driver and monitor as agent

l

Monitor is left off for simplicity (more on agent in later unit)

Extend from
class router_agent extends uvm_agent;
packet_sequencer seqr; driver drv;
uvm_agent
// utils macro and constructor not shown
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase); super.build_phase(phase);
seqr = packet_sequencer::type_id::create("seqr", this);
drv = driver::type_id::create("drv", this);
endfunction
In build phase, use factory
create() method to construct
components
function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
drv.seq_item_port.connect(seqr.seq_item_export);
endfunction
endclass

router_agent
packet_sequencer
default_sequence

driver

InTLM
connect
ports to
phase,
be covered
connect
next
built-in TLM ports
71

Key UVM Element: Environment Class

n

Encapsulate agent in environment class

l
l

Only agent for now. (Scoreboard and others in later units)

Configure the agent sequencers default_sequence

class router_env extends uvm_env;

Extend
router_agent agent;
// utils macro and constructor not shown

from uvm_env
In build phase,
create agent
object

function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);

super.build_phase(phase);
agent = router_agent::type_id::create("agent", this);
uvm_config_db #(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this, "*.seqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", packet_sequence::get_type());
endfunction
endclass

Set agents sequencer

to execute a default
sequence

router_env
router_agent
packet_sequence

packet_sequencer
default_sequence

packet
driver

72

Key UVM Element: Test Class

n

Develop Tests In Two Steps

l

Create default test (unconstrained)

u

test_base extending from

the uvm_test base class
Base test
extends from
uvm_test

test_base
router_env
router_agent
packet_sequence

packet_sequencer
default_sequence

packet

class test_base extends uvm_test;

router_env env;
driver
`uvm_component_utils(test_base)
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
env = router_env::type_id::create(env, this);
endfunction
In build phase, create the environment
endclass

object

Then, develop targeted tests extending from test_base

u

Will be covered in each of the subsequent units

73

Test Program
n

Execute test in programs initial block

program automatic test;

...
initial begin
run_test();
end
endprogram

test_base
router_env
router_agent

run_test()
packet_sequence

uvm_top
uvm_test_top

packet_sequencer
default_sequence

packet
driver

Simulate with:
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=test_base

74

Key UVM Testbench Elements: UVM Report

n

Every UVM report has a severity, verbosity and

simulation handling specification
l

Each independently specified and controlled

Severity

Indicates importance
Examples: Fatal, Error, Warning, Info
l

Verbosity

Indicates filter level

Examples: None, Low, Medium, High, Full, Debug
l

Action

Controls simulator behavior

Examples: Exit, Count, Display, Log, Call Hook, No Action
l

75

Embed Report Messages

n

Create messages with macros:

`uvm_fatal(string ID, string MSG);
`uvm_error(string ID, string MSG);
`uvm_warning(string ID, string MSG);
`uvm_info(string ID, string MSG, verbosity);

Example:
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
`uvm_info("Trace", $sformatf("%m"), UVM_HIGH)
if (![Link]()) begin
`uvm_fatal("CFG_ERROR", "Failed in Configuration randomization");
end
endfunction
UVM_FATAL ./[Link](14) @0.0ns: uvm_test_top[CFG_ERROR} Failed in

Severity

Time
File line no.

ID
Object name

MSG
76

Controlling Report Message Verbosity

n

Default Verbosity is UVM_MEDIUM

Set with run-time switch

simv +verbosity=UVM_HIGH

typedef enum {
UVM_NONE
= 0,
UVM_LOW
= 100,
UVM_MEDIUM = 200,
UVM_HIGH
= 300,
UVM_FULL
= 400,
UVM_DEBUG = 500
} uvm_verbosity;

Can be:
LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH, FULL, DEBUG,
UVM_LOW, UVM_MEDIUM, UVM_HIGH, UVM_FULL, UVM_DEBUG

Set verbosity for a component or hierarchy:

drv.set_report_verbosity_level(verbosity);
env.set_report_verbosity_level_hier(verbosity);

Exception:

`uvm_fatal, `uvm_error, and `uvm_warning

messages can not be filtered out via run-time switch
77

Default Simulation Handling

Severity

Default Action

UVM_FATAL

UVM_DISPLAY | UVM_EXIT

UVM_ERROR

UVM_DISPLAY | UVM_COUNT

UVM_WARNING

UVM_DISPLAY

UVM_INFO

UVM_DISPLAY

Action

Description

UVM_EXIT

Exit from simulation immediately

UVM_COUNT

Increment global error count. Set count for exiting

simulation, call set_report_max_quit_count()

UVM_DISPLAY

Display message on console

UVM_LOG

Captures message in a named file

UVM_CALL_HOOK

Calls callback method

UVM_NO_ACTION

Do nothing

78

Modify Report Message Action in Test

n

Actions can be modified by user

l

In start_of_simulation phase

set_report_severity_action(Severity, Action);
set_report_id_action(ID, Action);
set_report_severity_id_action(Severity, ID, Action);

n Priority:
set_report_severity_action()

(lowest)

set_report_id_action()
set_report_severity_id_action() (highest)

Example:
set_report_severity_action(UVM_FATAL, UVM_LOG | UVM_DISPLAY);
set_report_id_action("CFG_ERROR", UVM_NO_ACTION);
set_report_severity_id_action(UVM_ERROR, "CFG_ERROR", UVM_EXIT);

79

Command Line Control of Report Messages

n

Control verbosity of components at specific phases or times

l

id argument can be _ALL_ for all IDs or a specific id

u

Wildcard for id argument not supported

+uvm_set_verbosity=<comp>,<id>,<verbosity>,<phase>
+uvm_set_verbosity=<comp>,<id>,<verbosity>,time,<time>
+uvm_set_verbosity=uvm_test_top.env.agent1.*,_ALL_,UVM_FULL,time,800
n

Control report message action (like set_report_*_action)

l

Can be UVM_NO_ACTION or a | separated list of the other actions

+uvm_set_action=<comp>,<id>,<severity>,<action>
+uvm_set_action=uvm_test_top.env.*,_ALL_,UVM_ERROR,UVM_NO_ACTION
n

Control severity (like set_report_*_severity_override)

+uvm_set_severity=<comp>,<id>,<current severity>,<new severity>

+uvm_set_severity=uvm_test_top.*,BAD_CRC,UVM_ERROR,UVM_WARNING

80

Misc: Command Line Processor

n

User can query run-time arguments

class test_base extends uvm_test; // simplified code

uvm_cmdline_processor clp = uvm_cmdline_processor::get_inst();
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
// simplified code
if (clp.get_arg_value("+packet_item_count=", value))
uvm_config_db#(int)::set(this, "*.seqr.*", "item_count",
[Link]());
endfunction
function void start_of_simulation_phase(uvm_phase phase);
string tool, ver, args[$], m;
tool = clp.get_tool_name();
ver = clp.get_tool_version();
`uvm_info("TOOL_INFO",
$sformatf("Tool: %s, Version : %s", tool, ver), UVM_LOW);
clp.get_args(args);
foreach (args[i])
$sformat(m, {m, args[i], " "});
`uvm_info("ARGS", $sformatf("Sim cmd is:\n%s", m), UVM_LOW);
endfunction
endclass

81

Misc: Objection Run-Time Argument

n User can debug raising/dropping
+UVM_OBJECTION_TRACE

of objections with

Simulate with:
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=test_base +UVM_OBJECTION_TRACE
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_test_top.[Link].packet_sequence raised 1 objection(s): count=1
total=1
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_test_top.[Link] added 1 objection(s) to its total (raised from source
object ): count=0 total=1
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_test_top.[Link] added 1 objection(s) to its total (raised from source
object ): count=0 total=1
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_test_top.env added 1 objection(s) to its total (raised from source object ):
count=0 total=1
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_test_top added 1 objection(s) to its total (raised from source object
uvm_test_top.[Link].packet_sequence): count=0 total=1
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_top added 1 objection(s) to its total (raised from source object
uvm_test_top.[Link].packet_sequence): count=0 total=1

UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_test_top.[Link].packet_sequence dropped 1 objection(s): count=0

total=0
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_test_top.[Link].packet_sequence all_dropped 1 objection(s):
count=0 total=0
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_test_top.[Link] subtracted 1 objection(s) from its total (dropped
from source object ): count=0 total=0

UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_top subtracted 1 objection(s) from its total (dropped from source object
uvm_test_top.[Link].packet_sequence): count=0 total=0
UVM_INFO @ 0.0ns: main [OBJTN_TRC] Object uvm_top subtracted 1 objection(s) from its total (all_dropped from source object
82
uvm_test_top.[Link].packet_sequence): count=0 total=0

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Describe the process of reaching verification goals

Describe the UVM testbench architecture

Describe the different components of a UVM

testbench

Bring different components together to create a

UVM environment

83

Lab 1 Introduction
Implement transaction, components, and test

30 min

Implement
Transaction
Class
Implement
Sequence
Class
Implement
Component
Classes
Implement
Test
Compile
and
Simulate

84

Appendix

VCS Support for UVM

Store UVM Report Messages
in File
Calling UVM Messaging From
Modules
85

VCS Support for UVM

86

Compiling UVM with VCS 2011.03

n

Single compile flow

% vcs sverilog [Link] -ntb_opts uvm-1.0

%
%
%
%
%

UUM compile flow

Compile UVM library first

with no source files

vlogan sverilog work work1 -ntb_opts uvm-1.0

vlogan sverilog work work1 -ntb_opts uvm-1.0 file1.v
vlogan sverilog work work2 -ntb_opts uvm-1.0 file2.v
vhdlan work work3 [Link]
vcs top -ntb_opts uvm-1.0

When using the VPI-based backdoor access mechanism included in the UVM
library, the "+acc" and "+vpi" command-line options must also be used.

87

DVE UVM Macro Debugging

UVM Object Utils Macros

88

DVE UVM Transaction Level Debugging

n

Simple compile flow

% vcs sverilog -ntb_opts uvm lca +define+UVM_TR_RECORD

% simv +UVM_TR_RECORD +UVM_LOG_RECORD

Dumps UVM sequence items to VPD

Dumps UVM log messages to VPD

UUM compile flow

% vlogan -ntb_opts uvm lca +define+UVM_TR_RECORD

% vlogan -ntb_opts uvm [Link]
% vcs <top_module> $VCS_HOME/etc/uvm-1.0/dpi/uvm_dpi.cc
% simv +UVM_TR_RECORD +UVM_LOG_RECORD

89

UVM Template Generator (Coming Soon)

0) Physical interface declaration
1) Transaction descriptor
2) Driver, Physical-level, Full duplex
3) Driver, Functional-level, Full duplex
4) Generic Master Agent
5) Generic Slave Agent
6) Monitor, Physical-level, Half duplex
7) Monitor, Physical-level, Full duplex

16) Top Program/Module block

17) Sequence Library
18) Sequencers
19) Transaction descriptor testcase
20) Monitor Scoreboard Callbacks
21) Coverage Template
25) Monitor To coverage model Connector
26) Configuration descriptor
27) Hierarchical sequences (virtual)

8) Monitor, Functional-level, Half duplex

9) Monitor, Functional-level, Full duplex
10) RAL physical access BFM, single domain
11) RAL physical access BFM, multiplexed domains
12) Verification Environment (RAL or non-RAL)
13) Verification Environment with Agents (RAL or non-RAL)
14) Testcase
15) Agents

90

Store UVM Report Messages in File

91

Store Report Message in File

n

Message Action set to UVM_LOG causes the report

message to be stored in file
set_report_default_file(UVM_FILE);
set_report_severity_file(Severity, UVM_FILE)
set_report_id_file(ID, UVM_FILE);
set_report_severity_id_file(Severity, ID, UVM_FILE);

Example:
UVM_FILE log, err_log;
log
= $fopen("log", "w");
err_log = $fopen("[Link]", "w");
set_report_default_file(log);
set_report_severity_file(UVM_FATAL, err_log);
set_report_severity_action(UVM_FATAL, UVM_EXIT, UVM_LOG, UVM_DISPLAY);
set_report_id_file("Trace", UVM_LOG | UVM_DISPLAY)

Combine multiple actions with bitwise or

92

Calling UVM Messaging From Modules

93

Calling UVM Messaging From Modules (1/2)

n

The UVM messaging works well in the testbench,

but what about non-SystemVerilog RTL?
l

Create a global module to connect RTL and UVM

module GLOBAL;
import uvm_pkg::*;
//enumeration literals have to be separately imported
import uvm_pkg::UVM_HIGH; // And all the rest...
// Verilog-2001 compatible function
function reg uvm_info(input reg[100*8:1] ID,
input reg[1000*8:1] message,
input int verbosity);
`uvm_info(ID, message, verbosity);
uvm_info = 1;
endfunction
endmodule
//optional macros
`define G_UVM_HIGH
GLOBAL.UVM_HIGH
`define G_UVM_INFO(i,m,v) GLOBAL.uvm_info(i,m,v)

94

Calling UVM Messaging From Modules (2/2)

n

Call UVM messaging from RTL

l

Code does not require an SystemVerilog constructs

module dut(input reg reset_l, );

parameter DISPLAY_WIDTH = 1000;
reg [DISPLAY_WIDTH*8:1] message;
always @(negedge reset_l) begin
$sformat(message, %m: reset asserted at %t, $realtime);
`G_UVM_INFO(RESET, message, G_UVM_HIGH);
end
endmodule

95

96

Agenda: Day 1
DAY
1

OOP Inheritance Review

UVM Overview

Modeling Transactions

Creating Stimulus Sequences

97

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Build data models by inheriting from

uvm_sequence_item

Use shorthand-hand macros to create

uvm_sequence_item methods

Configure test with modified sequence items

98

Transaction Flow

Stimulus
created
here

Accumulated
here

Tests

Sequencer

Master

Freed
here

Freed
here

Sequencer

Scoreboard

Monitor

Created
here

Monitor

Slave

DUT

99

Modeling Transactions
n

Derive from uvm_sequence_item base class

l

Properties should be public by default

l

Built-in support for stimulus creation, printing, comparing, etc.

Must be visible to constraints in other classes

Properties should be rand by default

l

Can be turned off with rand_mode

class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;
rand bit [47:0] sa, da;
rand bit [15:0] len;
rand bit [ 7:0] payload[$];
rand bit [31:0] fcs;
function new(string name = packet);
[Link](name);
[Link].rand_mode(0);
endfunction
endclass

100

Other Properties to be Considered (1/2)

n

Embed transaction descriptor

l

Component interprets transaction to execute

class cpu_data extends uvm_sequence_item;

typedef enum {READ, WRITE} kind_t;
rand int delay = 0;
rand kind_t kind;
rand bit [31:0] addr;
rand bit [31:0] data;
function new(string name="cpu_data");
[Link](name);
[Link].rand_mode(0);
endfunction class cpu_driver extend uvm_driver #(cpu_data);
endclass
task do(cpu_data tr);
repeat([Link]) @(router_vi.[Link]);
case ([Link]) begin
cpu_data::READ:
[Link] = [Link]([Link]);
cpu_data::WRITE:
[Link]([Link], [Link]);
endcase
endtask
endclass

101

Other Properties to be Considered (2/2)

n

Embed transaction status flags

l

Set by component for execution status

class cpu_data extends uvm_sequence_item;

typedef enum {IS_OK, ERROR} status_e;
rand status_e status = IS_OK;
...
function new(string name=cpu_data);
[Link](name);
...
[Link].rand_mode(0);
endfunction class cpu_driver extend uvm_driver #(cpu_data);
endclass
task do(cpu_data tr);
repeat([Link]) @([Link]);
case ([Link]) begin
...
endcase
if (error_condition_encountered)
[Link] = cpu_data::ERROR;
`uvm_info(DEBUG, [Link](), UVM_HIGH)
endtask
endclass

102

Transactions: Must-Obey Constraints

n

Define constraint block for the must-obey constraints

l
l
l

Never turned off

Never overridden
Name "class_name_valid"

Example:
l

Non-negative values for int properties

class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;

rand int len;
...
constraint packet_valid {
len > 0;
}
endclass

103

Transactions: Should-Obey Constraints

n

Define constraint block for should-obey constraints

l
l

Can be turned off to inject errors

One block per relationship set
u

Can be individually turned off or overloaded

Name "class_name_rule"

class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;

...
constraint packet_sa_local {
sa[41:40]
== 2'b0;
}
constraint packet_ieee {
len
in {46:1500};
[Link]() == len;
...
}
constraint packet_fcs {
...
fcs == 32'h0000_0000;
}
endclass

104

Transactions: Constraint Considerations

n

Cant accidentally violate valid constraints

l

Constraint solver will fail if the user constraints conflict

with valid constraints

Total solution
space
Illegal solution
Space

Valid solution
space
Test constraints
Derived
Test constraints

105

Transaction Class Methods

n

How to manipulate transactions?

l
l

Print, copy, compare, record, pack

UVM has standard methods for these actions

n Use macros to create commonly

`uvm_object_utils_begin(cname)

needed methods

`uvm_field_*(ARG, FLAG)
`uvm_object_utils_end
class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;
rand bit [47:0] sa, da;
rand bit [ 7:0] payload[$];
packet
next;
`uvm_object_utils_begin(packet)
`uvm_field_int(sa, UVM_ALL_ON | UVM_NOCOPY)
`uvm_field_int(da, UVM_ALL_ON)
`uvm_field_queue_int(payload, UVM_ALL_ON)
`uvm_field_object(next, UVM_ALL_ON)
`uvm_object_utils_end
endclass

106

`uvm_field_* Macros
n

`uvm_field_* macros embed ARG properties in

methods specified by FLAG

Scalar and array properties are supported

uvm_field_int(ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_real(ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_event(ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_object(ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_string(ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_enum(T, ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_sarray_*(ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_array_*(ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_queue_*(ARG, FLAG)
uvm_field_aa_*_*(ARG, FLAG)

//
//
//
//
//

T enum data type

fixed size array:
dynamic array:
queue:
associative array:

_type
_type
_type
_type_index

107

Methods Specified by FLAG

n

FLAG is a collection of ON/OFF bits associated with

the base class methods
//A=ABSTRACT Y=PHYSICAL, F=REFERENCE, S=SHALLOW, D=DEEP
//K=PACK, R=RECORD, P=PRINT, M=COMPARE, C=COPY
//------------------------- AYFSD K R P M C
parameter UVM_DEFAULT
= 'b000010101010101;
parameter UVM_ALL_ON
= 'b000000101010101;

//Values are or'ed into a 32 bit value

parameter UVM_COPY
= (1<<0); // copy(...)
parameter UVM_NOCOPY
= (1<<1);
parameter UVM_COMPARE
= (1<<2); // compare(...)
parameter UVM_NOCOMPARE = (1<<3);
parameter UVM_PRINT
= (1<<4); // sprint(...)
parameter UVM_NOPRINT
= (1<<5);
parameter UVM_RECORD
= (1<<6); // record(...)
parameter UVM_NORECORD = (1<<7);
parameter UVM_PACK
= (1<<8); // pack(...)
parameter UVM_NOPACK
= (1<<9);
// Disable printing for a hidden field
`uvm_field_int(hidden_field, UVM_ALL_ON | UVM_NOPRINT)

108

Print Radix Specified by FLAG

n

Additional FLAG can be used to set radix for print

method

Radix for printing and recording can be specified by OR'ing one of the following constants
in the ~FLAG~ argument
UVM_BIN
UVM_DEC
UVM_UNSIGNED
UVM_OCT
UVM_HEX
UVM_STRING
UVM_TIME
UVM_REAL

Print/record
Print/record
Print/record
Print/record
Print/record
Print/record
Print/record
Print/record

field in binary (base-2)

field in decimal (base-10)
field in unsigned decimal (base-10)
the field in octal (base-8)
the field in hexadecimal (base-16)
the field in string format
the field in time format
the field in floating number format

// printing in decimal
`uvm_field_int(field, UVM_ALL_ON | UVM_DEC)

109

Transaction Methods
n

Default base class method

virtual function uvm_object clone();

Methods created by macros

For debugging

virtual function void print(uvm_printer printer = null)

virtual function string sprint(uvm_printer printer = null)

For making copies

virtual function void copy(uvm_object rhs);

Used by checker

virtual function bit

compare(uvm_object rhs,
uvm_comparer comparer = null);

virtual function int

pack(ref bit bitstream[],

input uvm_packer packer = null);
unpack(ref bit bitstream[],
input uvm_packer packer = null);

Used by transactors

virtual function int

For
recording/replaying
transactions

virtual function void record(uvm_recorder recorder = null);

110

Method Descriptions
methods

function

clone

The clone method creates and returns an exact copy of this object.
Calls create followed by copy

copy

Returns a deep copy of this object

print

Deep-prints this objects properties in a format and manner governed

by the given printer argument

sprint

Same as print, but returns a string

compare

Compare method deep compares this data object with the object
provided in the rhs

pack/unpack

Bitwise-concatenate objects properties into an array of bits, bytes, or

ints.

record

Deep-records this objects properties according to an optional

recorder policy

111

Customization of Methods
n

Methods can be customized via do_* methods

virtual function void do_print(uvm_printer printer = null)

virtual function void do_copy(uvm_object rhs);
virtual function bit

do_compare(uvm_object rhs,
uvm_comparer comparer = null);

virtual function int

do_pack(ref bit bitstream[],

input uvm_packer packer = null);

virtual function int

do_unpack(ref bit bitstream[],

input uvm_packer packer = null);

virtual function void do_record(uvm_recorder recorder = null);

112

Using Transaction Methods

name

packet pkt0, pkt1, pkt2;

string
bit bit_stream[];
pkt0 = packet::type_id::create(pkt0);
pkt1 = packet::type_id::create(pkt1);
[Link] = 10;
[Link]();

// display content of object on stdio

[Link](pkt1);

// copy content of pkt1 into memory of pkt0

// name string is not copied

$cast(pkt2, [Link]());

// make pkt2 an exact duplication of pkt1

// name string is copied

if() begin // compare the contents of pkt0 against pkt2

`uvm_fatal(MISMATCH, {\n, [Link](), [Link]()});
end
// sprint() returns string for logging
[Link](bit_stream);

// pack content of pkt0 into bit_stream array

[Link](bit_stream);

// unpack bit_stream array into pkt2 object

113

Modify Constraint in Transactions by Type

class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;
rand bit[3:0] sa, da;
rand bit[7:0] payload[];
constraint valid {[Link] inside {[2:10]};}
...
endclass
class packet_sa_3 extends packet;
constraint sa_3 {sa == 3;}
`uvm_object_utils(packet_sa_3)
function new(string name = "packet_sa_3");
[Link](name);
endfunction
endclass
class test_sa_3_type extends test_base;

The most common

transaction
modification is
constraint

`uvm_component_utils(test_sa_3_type)
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
[Link](name, parent);
endfunction
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
set_type_override("packet", "packet_sa_3");
endfunction
All packet instances are now
endclass

packet_sa_3

114

Transaction Replacement Results

Simulate with:
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=test_sa_3_type
UVM_INFO @ 0: uvm_test_top.[Link] [Normal] Item in Driver
req: (packet_sa_3@95) {
sa: 'h3
da: 'h7

#### Factory Configuration (*)

Type Overrides:
Requested Type
-------------packet

Override Type
-------------------------------packet_sa_3

function void final_phase(uvm_phase phase);

[Link]();
endfunction

115

Modify Constraint by Instance

class test_sa_3_inst extends test_base;
// utils and constructor not shown
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
set_inst_override("*.seqr.*", "packet", "packet_sa_3");
endfunction
Only packet instances in matching sequencers are
endclass

now

packet_sa_3
Simulate with:
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=test_sa_3_inst
UVM_INFO @ 0: uvm_test_top.[Link] [Normal] Item in Driver
req: (packet_sa_3@95) {
sa: 'h3
da: 'h7

Instance Overrides:
Requested Type Override Path
Override Type
-------------- ----------------------- ------------packet
uvm_test_top.*.seqr.*
packet_sa_3

116

Data Model Reuse: Class Hierarchy

Company
best practices

uvm_sequence_item

Generic

bu_data

Company-specific

usb_packet

Protocol-specific

dut_usb_packet

Environment-specific

test_usb_packet

Test-specific

OOP

Reuse
across
projects

Reuse across tests

117

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Build data models by inheriting from

uvm_sequence_item

Use shorthand-hand macros to create

uvm_sequence_item methods

Configure test with modified sequence items

118

Lab 2 Introduction
Implement configurable sequence

15 min

Create class
with modified
Constraint

Use new class

in Test

Compile
and
Simulate

119

Appendix

uvm_object_utils Macro

120

uvm_object_utils Macros
`uvm_object_utils[_begin](cname) Macro creates a
proxy class called
n Implements the following:
type_id
typedef
static
static
virtual
virtual

uvm_object_registry #(cname, cname) type_id;

const string type_name = cname;
function type_id get_type();
function uvm_object_wrapper get_object_type();
function string get_type_name();

class uvm_object_registry #(type T=uvm_object, string Tname="<unknown>) extends uvm_object_wrapper;

typedef uvm_object_registry #(T,Tname) this_type;
const static string type_name = Tname;
Proxy class (type_id) is an service
local static this_type me = get();
static function this_type get();
agent that creates objects of the

if (me == null) begin

class it represents
uvm_factory f = uvm_factory::get();
me = new;
A proxy class object is registered
[Link](me);
end
in uvm_factory at beginning of
return me;
simulation
endfunction

Creation of object
is done via proxy
class (type_id)
methods
static function T create(string name="", uvm_component parent=null, string contxt="");
static function void set_type_override(uvm_object_wrapper override_type, bit replace=1);
static function void set_inst_override(uvm_object_wrapper override_type, string inst_path, uvm_component
parent=null);
virtual function string get_type_name();
virtual function uvm_object create_object(string name="");

121

uvm_factory Class Summary (1/2)

class uvm_factory;
static local uvm_factory m_inst;
Factory registry table
protected uvm_object_wrapper m_type_names[string];
protected bit
m_types[uvm_object_wrapper];
protected bit
m_lookup_strs[string];
protected uvm_factory_override m_type_overrides[$];
protected uvm_factory_queue_class m_inst_override_queues[uvm_object_wrapper];
protected uvm_factory_queue_class m_inst_override_name_queues[string];
protected uvm_factory_override m_wildcard_inst_overrides[$];
local uvm_factory_override m_override_info[$];
function new ();
static function uvm_factory get(); if (m_inst == null) m_inst = new(); return m_inst;
endfunction
function void register (uvm_object_wrapper obj);
m_type_names[obj.get_type_name()] = obj;
m_types[obj] = 1;
if(m_inst_override_name_queues.exists(obj.get_type_name())) begin
m_inst_override_queues[obj] = new;
m_inst_override_queues[obj].queue =
m_inst_override_name_queues[obj.get_type_name()].queue;
m_inst_override_name_queues.delete(obj.get_type_name());
end
if(m_wildcard_inst_overrides.size()) begin
if(! m_inst_override_queues.exists(obj)) m_inst_override_queues[obj] = new;
foreach (m_wildcard_inst_overrides[i]) begin
if(uvm_is_match(obj.get_type_name(), m_wildcard_inst_overrides[i].orig_type_name))
m_inst_override_queues[obj].queue.push_back(m_wildcard_inst_overrides[i]);
end end

122

uvm_factory Class Summary (2/2)

function void set_inst_override_by_type (uvm_object_wrapper original_type, override_type, string
full_inst_path);
function void set_inst_override_by_name(string original_type_name, override_type_name, full_inst_path);
function void set_type_override_by_type (uvm_object_wrapper original_type, override_type, bit replace=1);
function void set_type_override_by_name(string original_type_name, override_type_name, bit replace=1);
function uvm_object create_object_by_type(uvm_object_wrapper requested_type, string parent_inst_path=",
name="");
function uvm_component create_component_by_type (uvm_object_wrapper requested_type,
string parent_inst_path=", string name, uvm_component parent);
function uvm_object create_object_by_name(string requested_type_name, parent_inst_path=", name="");
function uvm_component create_component_by_name (string requested_type_name,
parent_inst_path=", name, uvm_component parent);
function void debug_create_by_type(uvm_object_wrapper requested_type, string parent_inst_path=",
name="");
function void debug_create_by_name (string requested_type_name, string parent_inst_path=", string
name="");
function uvm_object_wrapper find_override_by_type (uvm_object_wrapper requested_type, string
full_inst_path);
function uvm_object_wrapper find_override_by_name (string requested_type_name, string full_inst_path);
function uvm_object_wrapper find_by_name (string type_name);
function void print (int all_types=1);
protected function void m_debug_create(string requested_type_name, uvm_object_wrapper requested_type,
string parent_inst_path, string name);
protected function void m_debug_display(string requested_type_name, uvm_object_wrapper result, string
full_inst_path);
local static bit m_debug_pass;
123

124

Agenda: Day 1
DAY
1

OOP Inheritance Review

UVM Overview

Modeling Transactions

Creating Stimulus Sequences

125

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Create sequences using base classes

Create complex sequences

Configure sequences

Setting sequences to execute at different

phases

126

Typical Sequence Execution Protocol

n

Sequencer and driver are

synchronized via TLM port

Test
Environment
Sequencer

Sequencer

Sequencer randomizes
sequence
(referenced by
default_sequence)
Sequencer executes
sequences
start() method

default_sequence
Sequence
Sequence_item
Driver

driver

Sequence

start() executes pre_body()

start() executes body()
body() generates sequence
item
(Subject of this unit)
start() executes
post_body()

Driver requests for

sequence item
Driver waits for sequence
item
Driver processes sequence
item
Driver flags sequence item
done
127

Mapping Protocol to Code (1/2)

Sequence

driver

start() executes pre_body()

start() executes body()
body() generates sequence
item
(Subject of this unit)
start() executes
post_body()

Driver requests for

sequence item
Driver waits for sequence
item
Driver processes
sequence item
Driver flags sequence item
done

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);

// utils and constructor not shown
virtual task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
forever begin
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
`uvm_info(DRVR, [Link](), UVM_MEDIUM);
seq_item_port.item_done();
end
endtask
endclass

128

Mapping Protocol to Code (2/2)

class user_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(packet);
virtual task pre_body();
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
Driver wait for sequence
endtask
item
Sequencer randomizes
virtual task body();
sequence
Driver process sequence
`uvm_do(req);
(referencedendtask
by
item
default_sequence)
virtual task post_body();
Driver flags sequence item
Sequencer executes
if (starting_phase != null)
done
sequences starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
start() method
endtask
Sequence
endclass

Details in next few slides

start() executes pre_body()

start() executes body()
body() generate sequence
item
(Subject of this unit)
start() executes
post_body()
129

Sequence Class Requirements

n
n

User sequence extends from uvm_sequence class

Sequence code resides in body() method
l

Use uvm_do macro to create, randomize and pass

sequence item to driver

Sequences need to raise and drop phase objection

to allow sequences to span execution over time
class user_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(packet);
// macro and constructor not shown
virtual task body();
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
`uvm_do(req);
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
endtask
endclass

130

User Sequence Class Implementation

Simplify sequence implementation:
n Create base sequence to raise and drop objections
n Create user sequence extending from base sequence
class base_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(packet);
// macro and constructor not shown
virtual task pre_body();
if (starting_phase != null) starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
endtask
virtual task post_body();
if (starting_phase != null) starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
endtask
endclass
class user_sequence extends base_sequence;
// macro and constructor not shown
virtual task body();
`uvm_do(req);
// if constraint is required: `uvm_do_with(req, {sa == 3;});
endtask
endclass

131

User Can Manually Create and Send Item

n

`uvm_do* macro effectively implements the

following:
// Simplified code not complete code
`define uvm_do(UVM_SEQUENCE_ITEM) \
`uvm_create(UVM_SEQUENCE_ITEM) \
start_item(UVM_SEQUENCE_ITEM); \
UVM_SEQUENCE_ITEM.randomize(); \
finish_item(UVM_SEQUENCE_ITEM);

taskmanually
body();
n virtual
User can
//
//

execute the embedded methods:

Instead of `uvm_do_with(req, {sa == 3;})

User can populate own item:
`uvm_create(req); // constructs an item and sets item ids and link to parent
sequencer
start_item(req); // wait for parent sequencer to get request from driver
[Link] = 3;
// populate item with user value
...
finish_item(req); // use parent sequencer to pass item to driver and wait for
done
endtask

132

User Can Implement Scenario Sequence

class array_sequence extends base_sequence;
Use array of rand
// macro not shown
transactions to
rand packet arr[10];
constraint array_constraint {
create scenario
foreach(arr[i]) {
(i > 0) -> arr[i].sa == arr[i-1].sa + 1;
}
}
function new(string name=packet_sequence); [Link](name);
foreach(arr[i])
arr[i] = packet::type_id::create($sformatf("arr[%0d]", i));
endfunction
virtual task body();
foreach (arr[i]) begin
`uvm_create(req); // constructs an item and sets item ids and link to parent
sequencer
[Link](arr[i]); // copy scenario object content into req
start_item(req); // wait for access to parent sequencer
finish_item(req); // use parent sequencer to pass item to driver and wait for
done
end
endtask
endclass

133

Nested Sequences
n

Sequences can be nested

class noise_sequence extends base_sequence; // other code

virtual task body();
`uvm_info(get_name(), $sformatf(%m), UVM_HIGH);
class burst_sequence extends base_sequence; // other code
...
virtual task body();
endtask
`uvm_info(get_name(), $sformatf(%m), UVM_HIGH);
class
congested_sequence extends base_sequence; // other code
endclass
...
virtual task body();
endtask
`uvm_info(get_name(), $sformatf(%m), UVM_HIGH);
class nested_sequence extends base_sequence;
endclass
...
// utils macro and constructor not shown
endtask
noise_sequence
noise;
endclass
burst_sequence
burst;
congested_sequence congestion;
virtual task body();
`uvm_do(noise);
`uvm_do(burst);
`uvm_do(congestion);
endtask
endclass

134

Executing User Sequences in Test

n

Default test (test_base) executes default sequence

specified by embedded environment

class router_env extends uvm_env; // other code not shown

function void build_phase();
// simplified code
uvm_config_db #(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this, "*.seqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", packet_sequence::get_type());
class test_base extends uvm_test;
endfunction
router_env env;
endclass
// other code not shown
endclass

Test writer can override this in targeted tests

class test_nested extends test_base; // other code not shown

function void build_phase();
// simplified code
uvm_config_db#(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this, "env.*.seqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", nested_sequence::get_type());
endfunction
endclass

135

Sequence Can Be Configured (Local)

n

Reference configuration field through parent sequencer

class packet_sequence extends base_sequence;

int item_count = 10; // utils macro and constructor not shown
task body();

Parent
sequencer

Tag to get
value

uvm_config_db#(int)::get(m_sequencer,"*","item_count",item_count);
repeat(item_count) begin
`uvm_do(req)
Sequence instance
Variable to store
end
name
value
endtask
n Set in test
endclass
unchanged if not

set
class test_20_items extends test_base;
// utils and constructor not shown
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase); Tag to set
super.build_phase(phase);
value
uvm_config_db#(int)::set(this, "*.seqr.*", "item_count", 20);
endfunction
Context of
Instance name in
Valu
endclass

search

context

136

Sequence Can Be Configured (Global)

n

Use resource database to configure sequence

class packet_sequence extends base_sequence;

int item_count = 1; // utils macro and constructor not shown
Scope where resource
task body();

reside
uvm_resource_db#(int)::read_by_name("SEQ_CNTRL",
"item_count", item_count);
repeat(item_count)begin
`uvm_do(req);
Field tag within resource
Variable to store
end
pool
value
endtask
endclass
unchanged if not

Set in test

set

class test_10_items extends test_base;

//utils and constructor not shown
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
uvm_resource_db#(int)::set("SEQ_CNTRL", "item_count", 10);
endfunction
Scope where resource
Field
Valu
endclass

reside

137

Set Sequence to Execute at a Phase

n

Sequences be targeted for a chosen phase

l

Typically done at the testcase level

class simple_seq_RST extends uvm_sequence #();

class simple_seq_CFG extends uvm_sequence #();
class simple_seq_MAIN extends uvm_sequence #();
class simple_seq_SHUT extends uvm_sequence
#();
class phase_test
extends test_base;
typedef uvm_config_db #(uvm_object_wrapper) seq_phase;
// utils macro and constructor not shown
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
seq_phase::set(this, "[Link].reset_phase",
"default_sequence", simple_seq_RST::get_type());
seq_phase::set(this, "[Link].configure_phase",
"default_sequence", simple_seq_CFG::get_type());
seq_phase::set(this, "[Link].main_phase",
"default_sequence", simple_seq_MAIN::get_type());
seq_phase::set(this, "[Link].shutdown_phase",
"default_sequence", simple_seq_SHUT::get_type());
endfunction
endclass

138

Alternative Way to Execute Sequence

n

Execute sequence via sequences start() method:

class router_env extends uvm_env; // other code not shown

function void build_phase();
// simplified code
uvm_config_db #(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this, "*.seqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", packet_sequence::get_type());
endfunction
endclass
class test_explicit_sequence extends test_base;
// macro and constructor not shown
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
uvm_config_db#(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this, "*.seqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", base_sequence::get_type());
endfunction
task main_phase(uvm_phase phase);
nested_sequence seq = new();
Default sequence in sequencer
[Link]([Link]);
needs to be turned off. In UVM 1.0,
endtask
endclass
the only way to do that is to execute a

noop sequence.

139

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Create sequences using base classes

Create complex sequences

Configure sequences

Setting sequences to execute at different phases

140

Lab 3 Introduction
Implement configurable sequence

30 min

Create
configurable
sequence

Implement
Test

Compile
and
Simulate

141

Appendix

Sequencer-Driver
Communication
Sequencer-Driver Response
Port

142

Sequencer-Driver Communication

143

Sequencer-Driver Communication Detailed

n

Pseudo code illustration:

Sequencer
my_seq
`uvm_do(tr);

get_next_item(req)
send(req)
item_done();

task body();
repeat (10) begin
`uvm_do(req);
end
define uvm_do(req)
endtask
`uvm_create(req); task start_item(req);
start_item(req);
seqr.wait_for_grant();
[Link]();
seqr.begin_tr(req);
finish_item(req); endtask

Driver
class driver
task run_phase();
task finish_item(req);
forever begin
seqr.send_request(req);
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
seqr.wait_for_item_done();
send(req);
seqr.end_tr(req);
seq_item_port.item_done();
endtask
end
endtask
endclass
Caution: Pseudo code, not actual code

7
6
5
4
3
2
1

144

Another View of Sequencer-Driver Interaction

n

Pseudo code illustration:

task xxx_phase();
start_default_sequence();
endtask task start_default_sequence();

uvm_sequence seq = default_sequence;

[Link]()
[Link](this);
endtask task start (uvm_sequencer_base seqr);
pre_body();
task body();
body();
`uvm_create(req);
post_body();
Sequencer
seqr.wait_for_grant();
endtask
xxx_phase()
seqr.begin_tr(req);
get_next_item()
[Link]();
task get_next_item();
seqr.send_request(req);
select_sequence();
seqr.wait_for_item_done();
endtask
seqr.end_tr(req);
endtask
port.get_next_item(req)
send(req)
item_done();

Driver

Caution: Pseudo code, not actual code

145

Sequencer-Driver Response Port

146

Sequencer-Driver Response Port (1/2)

n

Driver can send response back to sequence

Retrieve
response

task body();
repeat (10) begin
`uvm_do(req);
get_response(rsp);
// process response
end
endtask

[Link]

Sequencer
my_seq
`uvm_do(tr);

get_response(rsp)

Optional
response

get_next_item(req)

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet); send(req)

...
task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
item_done(rsp);
forever begin
Driver
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
send(req);
Create and
rsp = packet::type_id::create(rsp);
rsp.set_id_info(req);
set response
// set rsp response
id
seq_item_port.item_done(rsp);
(required!)
end
endtask
Set response
endclass

147

Sequencer-Driver Response Port (2/2)

n

Alternative if the response timing is not immediate

l

E.g. out of order processing

Retrieve
response

task body();
repeat (10) begin
`uvm_do(req);
// create thread to wait for response
get_response(rsp);
// process response
end
class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);
endtask
task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
forever begin
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
send(req);
rsp = packet::type_id::create(rsp);
rsp.set_id_info(req);
seq_item_port.item_done();
// other activities
seq_item_port.put_response(rsp);
end
endtask
Set response
endclass

148

Agenda: Day 2
DAY
2

Component Configuration & Factory

TLM Communication

Scoreboard & Coverage

UVM Callback

149

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Describe component logical hierarchy

Use logical hierarchy to get/set component

configuration fields

Use factory to create test replaceable

transaction and components

150

UVM Component Base Class Structure

n

Behavioral base class is uvm_component

l
l

Has logical parent-child relationship

Provides mechanism for phasing control & configuration
uvm_object

uvm_report_object
uvm_component
uvm_test
uvm_env
uvm_agent

is_active

req, rsp
uvm_sequencer_base
uvm_monitor
uvm_scoreboard

build
connect
end_of_elaboration
start_of_simulation
run*
extract
check
report
final

uvm_sequencer_param_base
uvm_sequencer
req, rsp
uvm_driver

151

Component Parent-Child Relationships

n

Logical relationship is established at creation of

component object
components
only
uvm_component; //

class child extends

utils macro
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
[Link](name, parent);
endfunction
Pass parent in via
endclass

constructor

class BFM extends uvm_component; // utils macro

child child1, child2;
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
[Link](name, parent);
endfunction
function void build_phase(); super.build_phase();
child1 = child::type_id::create("child1", this);
child2 = child::type_id::create("child2", this);
endfunction
endclass
Establish logical
...
hierarchy
BFM blk = BFM::type_id::create("blk", null);

blk

child1

child2

152

Display & Querying

n

Rich set of methods for query & display

Display all
members
Get logical
name
Get hierarchical
name
Find one
component
via logical
name
Find all
matching
components

[Link]();
string str = obj.get_name();
string str = obj.get_full_name();

Logical name
uvm_component obj;
obj = uvm_top.find(*.vip"));
uvm_component objs[$];
uvm_top.find_all(*.drv_?, objs);
foreach (objs[i]) begin
objs[i].print();
end
Can use wildcard

* match anything
? match one
character

153

Query Hierarchy Relationship

n

Easy to get handle to object parent/children

Get handle to
parent
Finding
object via
logical
name
Determine
number of
children
Iterate through
children

uvm_component obj;
obj = [Link].get_parent();

Logical name
uvm_component obj;
obj = vip1.get_child("bfm");
int num_ch = vip.get_num_children();

string name;
uvm_component child;
if (vip.get_first_child(name)) do begin
child = vip.get_child(name);
[Link]();
end while (vip.get_next_child(name));

154

Use Logical Hierarchy in Configuration

n

Mechanism for configuring object properties

Object context in which
the target instance name
Tag to get
resides
value
uvm_config_db#(type)::get(context,inst_name,field,var)
Hierarchical instance
name in context
Object context in which
the target instance name
reside

variable to store
value
unchanged if not
set
Tag to set
value

uvm_config_db#(type)::set(context,inst_name,field,valu
e)
Hierarchical instance
Value to
name in context
set
155

Configuration Example: Non-Object

n

Non-object field configuration

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);

Configuration fields
// constructor not shown
should be listed in
int port_id = -1; // user configurable
`uvm_component_utils_begin(driver)
component utils
`uvm_field_int(port_id, UVM_DEFAULT)
macro
`uvm_component_utils_end
function void build_phase();
If super.build_phase() is
super.build_phase(phase);
called, uvm_config_db::get()
uvm_config_db::set()
endfunction
not needed
virtual task run_phase();

// uvm_config_db #(int)::get(this, "", "port_id", port_id);

if (port_id == -1) ...;
else ...;
Set port_id to 10.
... class router_env extends uvm_env;
Can also be done in test
endtask // utils macro and constructor not shown
endclass virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
uvm_config_db #(int)::set(this, "*.drv", "port_id", 10);
endfunction
endclass

156

Configuration Example: Object

n

Object field configuration

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);
// constructor not shown
packet tr; // user configurable
`uvm_component_utils_begin(driver)
`uvm_field_object(tr, UVM_DEFAULT)
`uvm_component_utils_end
virtual task run_phase(); ...
if (uvm_config_db #(packet)::get(this, "", "tr", tr)) begin
process(tr);
end else begin
uvm_config_db::get() required
process(req);
end
...
class driver_with_object_test extends test_base;
endtask
// utils and constructor not shown
endclassvirtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
packet tr = new(tr);
super.build_phase(phase);
[Link]() with { sa == 3; da == 7;};
uvm_config_db #(packet)::set(this, "*.drv", "tr", tr);
endfunction
endclass

157

Other Examples: Physical Interface

n

For physical layer connection, dont pass virtual

interface as constructor argument
l

Not supported by proxy class (type_id)

create() method

class driver extends uvm_driver#(packet);

virtual router_io.driver sigs;
...
function new(..., virtual router_io sigs);
[Link] = sigs;
...
endfunction
endclass

Generator

Agent

Driver
Physical
device driver

Use set/get methods in uvm_config_db

158

Configuring Components DUT Interface

n

In component, use uvm_config_db#(intf)::get()

in build_phase to retrieve DUT signal

class driver extends ; // simplified code

virtual router_io sigs;
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
if (!uvm_config_db#(virtual router_io)::get(this, "",
"router_io", sigs))
`uvm_fatal("CFGERR", "Driver DUT interface not set");
endfunction
endclass

In test, use uvm_config_db#(intf)::set() in

build_phase to set DUT signal

class test_base extends ; // simplified code

function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
uvm_config_db#(virtual router_io)::set(this, "env.*",
"router_io", router_test_top.sigs);
endfunction
endclass
159

One More Example: Reset Sequence

n

Create a sequence to reset DUT

class reset_sequence extends uvm_sequence; // simplified code

virtual router_io sigs;
task body();
if (!uvm_config_db#(virtual router_io)::get(m_sequencer, "*",
"router_io", sigs)) begin
`uvm_fatal("CFGERR", "DUT reset interface not set");
end else begin ... Reset Code ... end
endtask
endclass

Use uvm_config_db#()::set() to execute sequence

in reset_phase

class router_env extends uvm_env; // simplified code

function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
uvm_config_db#(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this, "seqr.reset_phase",
"default_sequence", reset_sequence::type_id::get());
endfunction
endclass

160

Global UVM Resource

n
n

uvm_config_db sets objects local configurations

For global configuration, use UVM resource
Scope where resource
reside

Content of
resource

uvm_resource_db#(d_type)::set(scope, key, value, accessor);

Name of
resource

Object making
call
n Retrieval of the resources can be done in
ways
(fortwo
debugging)
l Read by name
l Read by type
Variable of data type
Data type

uvm_resource_db#(d_type)::read_by_name(scope,key,type_var,accessor);
uvm_resource_db#(d_type)::read_by_type(scope, type_field, accessor);

Variable of data type

161

Additional Needs: Manage Test Variations

n

Tests need to introduce class variations, e.g.

l
l

Adding constraints
Modify the way data is sent by the driver

Instance based variation or global

Control object allocation in entirety or for specific

objects

Create generic functionality

l

Deferring exact object creation to runtime

Solution : Built-in UVM Factory

162

Test Requirements: Transaction

n

How to manufacture transaction instances with

additional information without modifying the
original source code?
class driver extends uvm_driver #(transaction);
...
virtual task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
forever begin
Type of object
transaction tr;
Poor coding style
determines
tr = new("tr");
No way of overriding
memory allocated
...
the transaction
process(tr);
for the instance
end
object with a derived
endtask
type
endclass

Impossible to add
new members or
modify constraint
later

class my_transaction extends transaction;

int serial_no;
constraint test_constraint {...}
endclass

163

Test Requirements: Components

n

How to manufacture component instances with

additional information without modifying the
original source code?
class environment extends uvm_env;
sequencer seqr;
driver drv;
...
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
No way of modifying
seqr = new("seqr", this);
drv = new("drv", this);
the component
...
behavior
endfunction
endclass
class NewDriver extends driver;
virtual task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
if ([Link] == 1)
Impossible to
...
change behavior
endtask
endclass
test

for
164

Factories in UVM
Implementation flow
n

Factory instrumentation/registration
l

`uvm_object_utils(Type)
`uvm_component_utils(Type)

Macro creates a proxy class

l
to represent the
object/component called
type_id
And, registers an instance of
n Construct object using static proxy
the proxy
class
in
class
method
uvm_factory
l ClassName obj = ClassName::type_id::create();
n

Class overrides
l
l

set_type_override ();
set_inst_override ();

Use proxy class to create

object
Proxy class in uvm_factory can
be overridden to create
modified object
165

Transaction Factory
n

Construct object via create() in factory class

class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;

rand bit[3:0] sa, da;
`uvm_object_utils_begin(packet)
...
endclass

Required!
Macro defines a proxy class called type_id
An instance of proxy class is registered in
uvm_factory

class bfm extends uvm_component;

Parent handle in proxy
task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
create() method call
forever begin
a component
packet tr;
tr = packet::type_id::create("tr", this);
...
end
Use create() method of proxy
endtask
class in run phase to construct
endclass

transaction object

must be

166

UVM Factory Transaction Creation

class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;
rand bit[3:0] sa, da;
`uvm_object_utils_begin(packet)
[Link]
...
endclass

macro expansion
class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;
typedef uvm_component_registry #(packet, "packet") type_id;
...
endclass

Parent component handle establishes

search path

packet tr;
tr = packet::type_id::create("tr", this);

Are any overrides of class packet?

newPkt ord = new("tr");

tr = ord;

N
tr = new("tr");

167

Customize Transaction in Test

n

Globally change all packet type

class newPkt extends packet;

int serial_no;
constraint test_constraint {...}

Make modifications
to existing
transaction
Required!
Creates proxy class

`uvm_object_utils_begin(newPkt)
...
endclass class packet_test extends test_base;
`uvm_component_utils(packet_test)

virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);

super.build_phase(phase);
set_type_override("packet", newPkt");
endfunction
endclass

all existing
packet
proxypath
to newPkt
Or change just Change
instances
found
in search

set_inst_override(*.[Link], packet, newPkt);

Search path
168

Component Factory
n

Construct object via create() in factory class

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);
`uvm_component_utils_begin(driver)
...
endclass

Required!
Macro defines a proxy class called type_id
An instance of proxy class is registered in
uvm_factory

class router_env extends uvm_env;

`uvm_component_utils_begin(router_env)
driver drv;
...
parent handle
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
required!
drv = driver::type_id::create("drv", this);
...
endfunction
Use create() method of
endclass

proxy class to construct

component object

169

UVM Factory Component Creation

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);
`uvm_component_utils(driver)
...
[Link]
endclass
class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);
typedef uvm_component_registry #(driver, "driver") type_id;
...
macro expansion
N
endclass

router_env.sv
driver drv;
drv = driver::type_id::create("drv", this);
Any overrides of class driver
under this parent scope?

newDrv ord;
ord = new("drv", this);
drv = ord;

drv = new("drv", this);

170

Customize Component in Test

n

Globally change all driver type

Required!
Creates proxy class

class newDriver extends driver;

`uvm_component_utils_begin(newDriver)
virtual task run_phase();
Make
if ([Link] == 1)
...
behavioral
endtask
modifications
endclass
class component_test extends test_base;
`uvm_component_utils(component_est)
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
set_type_override("driver", "newDriver");
endfunction
endclass
n
Change all existing driver

Or change just instances found in search path

set_inst_override("*.drv", "driver", "newDriver");

Search path
171

Command-line Override
n

User can override factory objects at command line

l

Objects must be constructed with the factory

class_name::type_id::create() method

+uvm_set_inst_override=<req_type>,<override_type>,<inst_path>
+uvm_set_type_override=<req_type>,<override_type>

Works like the overrides in the factory

l
l

set_inst_override()
set_type_override()

Example:

+uvm_set_inst_override=driver,NewDriver,*.drv0
+uvm_set_type_override=packet,newPacket
No space character!

172

Visually Inspect Structural Correctness

n

Topology of the test can be printed with

uvm_top.print_topology()
UVM_INFO @ 734950.0ns: reporter [UVMTOP] UVM testbench topology:
---------------------------------------------------------------------Name
Type
Size
Value
---------------------------------------------------------------------uvm_test_top
test_base
@15
env
router_env
@18
drv_agent_0
driver_agent
@21
drv
driver
@755
rsp_port
uvm_analysis_port
@759
sqr_pull_port
uvm_seq_item_pull_+ @757
router_vi
router_port_wrapper @17
port_id
integral
32
'h0
mon
iMonitor
@789
analysis_port
uvm_analysis_port
@791
port_id
integral
32
'h0
router_vi
router_port_wrapper @17
...
function void final_phase(uvm_phase phase);
uvm_top.print_topology();
endfunction
173

Can Choose Print Format

n

Topology can also be printed in tree format

UVM_INFO @ 734950.0ns: reporter [UVMTOP] UVM testbench topology:

uvm_test_top: (test_base@15) {
env: (router_env@18) {
drv_agent_0: (driver_agent@21) {
drv: (driver@755) {
rsp_port: (uvm_analysis_port@759) {
}
sqr_pull_port: (uvm_seq_item_pull_port@757) {
}
router_vi: (router_port_wrapper@17) {
}
port_id: 'h0
}
mon: (iMonitor@789) {
analysis_port: (uvm_analysis_port@791) {
}
port_id: 'h0
router_vi: (router_port_wrapper@17) {
}
function void final_phase(uvm_phase phase);
}
uvm_top.print_topology(uvm_default_tree_printer);
...

174

Visually Inspect Factory Overrides

n

You should always check the overrides with

[Link]()
n
n

Instance overrides are under Instance Overrides

Global type overrides are under Type Overrides

Instance Overrides:
Requested Type
----------------uvm_sequence_item

Override Path
-------------------------------uvm_test_top.[Link]*.item

Override Type
------------simple_item

Type Overrides:
Requested Type
----------------simple_driver

Override Type
-------------delayed_driver

function void final_phase(uvm_phase phase);

uvm_top.print_topology(uvm_default_tree_printer);
[Link]();
endfunction

175

Best Practice in Extending Components

n

Anticipate that components may be extended to

provide additional functionality

Divide base class into smaller virtual methods that

can be extended and reused

class driver extends uvm_driver #(transaction);

virtual task process(transaction tr);
case ([Link])
READ: read(tr);
WRITE: write(tr); class new_driver extends driver;
endcase
virtual task process(transaction tr);
endtask
case ([Link])
virtual task read(transaction
tr);
INTERRUPT:
interrupt(tr);
virtual task write(transaction
tr);
default:
[Link](tr);
endclass
endtask
virtual task INTERRUPT(transaction tr);
endclass

176

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Describe component logical hierarchy

Use logical hierarchy to get/set component

configuration fields

Use factory to create test replaceable transaction

and components

177

Appendix

SystemVerilog Interface
Command Line Configuration
uvm_component_utils Macro

178

SystemVerilog Interface

179

Physical Interface: SystemVerilog Interface

n

Use an interface with a clocking block

l
l
l

Drive signals on clock boundaries

Encapsulate clock details inside interface
Connect TB to IFC with absolute hierarchical reference

interface apb_if(input PClk);

logic [31:0] Addr;
logic [31:0] WData;
logic [31:0] RData;
logic Valid, Write;
clocking master_cb @(posedge PClk);
output Addr;
output WData;
input
RData;
output Valid;
output Write;
endclocking
modport master(clocking master_cb);
endinterface

module top;
bit clk;
apb_if ifc(clk);
dut dut(ifc);
test tb();
endmodule

TB

Physical
Interface

DUT
Interface

top.v

Absolute
hierarchical
reference

180

What is a Virtual Interface?

n

A virtual interface is a pointer to a physical interface

l

n
n

ref router_io sigs; // Psuedo-code

RTL connects blocks with physical interfaces

Testbench drives and samples these interfaces
l
l

Think of it as:

Testbench class objects can not create interfaces

Virtual interface is needed to point to interfaces in RTL

Virtual interface separates testbench from RTL

l
l

Testbench use virtual interface to access RTL signals

Testbench classes are design independent

class router_vi_wrapper extends uvm_object;

virtual router_io sigs;
`uvm_object_utils(router_vi_wrapper)
function new(string name=, virtual router_io sigs=null);
[Link](name);
[Link] = sigs;
endfunction
endclass

181

Command Line Configuration

182

Command-Line Configuration
n

User can configure integer and string at command line

l

Fields must be listed in the uvm_component_utils macro

+uvm_set_config_int=<comp>,<field>,<value>
+uvm_set_config_string=<comp>,<field>,<value>
n

Example:

+uvm_set_config_int=uvm_test_top.*.drv,delay,10

CAUTION:
Only for integer and string!

No space character!

Only for components!

Does not work if uvm_config_db::set() is called!!!!!!

183

uvm_component_utils Macro

184

uvm_component_utils Macros
`uvm_component_utils[_begin](cname)
n Implements the following:
typedef uvm_component_registry #(cname, cname) type_id;
const static string type_name = cname;
static function type_id get_type();
virtual function uvm_object_wrapper get_object_type();
virtual function string get_type_name();
class uvm_component_registry #(type T=uvm_component, string Tname="<unknown>) extends
uvm_object_wrapper;
typedef uvm_component_registry #(T,Tname) this_type;
const static string type_name = Tname;
local static this_type me = get();
static function this_type get();

if (me == null) begin

uvm_factory f = uvm_factory::get();
Macro creates a proxy class
me = new;
which is registered in the
[Link](me);
end
uvm_factory
return me;
endfunction
static function T create(string name="", uvm_component parent=null, string contxt="");
static function void set_type_override(uvm_object_wrapper override_type, bit replace=1);
static function void set_inst_override(uvm_object_wrapper override_type, string inst_path, uvm_component
parent=null);
virtual function string get_type_name();

185

186

Agenda: Day 2
DAY
2

Component Configuration & Factory

TLM Communication

Scoreboard & Coverage

UVM Callback

187

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Describe and implement TLM port/socket for

communication between components

188

Component Interface: Overview

n

Need to exchange transactions between

components of verification environment
l
l

Sequencer Driver
Monitor Collectors (Scoreboard, Coverage)
Component
Interfaces

Component
Interfaces

Stimulus
Sequencer

Driver

Coverage
Scoreboard
Monitor

Monitor

Response
Sequencer

Slave

189

Component Interface: Method Interface

n

Component can embed method for communication

class Consumer extends uvm_component;
...
virtual task put(transaction tr);
endclass

But, the interface method should not be called through

the component objects handle
l

Code becomes too inflexible for testbench structure

u

In example below, Producer is stuck with communicating with

only a specific Consumer type

Producer
[Link](tr);

Dont Do

Consumer
task put();

190

Component Interface: Method Interface

n

Use an intermediary interface object (TLM) to

handle the execution of the procedural interface
Call interface
method through
an interface
object
Producer
[Link](tr);

Producer
tlm_port.put(tr);

Consumer
put(tr)

task put();

TLM port

Consumer
task put();

191

Component Interface: Method Interface

n

Through the intermediary interface object (TLM)

components can be re-connected to any other
component on a testcase by testcase basis
Other_Producer
tlm_port.put(tr);

TLM port
Producer
tlm_port.put(tr);

Consumer
task put();

TLM port
Consumer

Producer

task put();

tlm_port.put(tr);

TLM port
Other_Consumer
task put();

192

Communication in UVM: TLM 1.0, 2.0

n

TLM Classes
l uvm_*_export
l uvm_*_imp
l uvm_*_port
l uvm_*_fifo
l uvm_*_socket

simple_env
simple_sequencer
simple_sequence

default_sequence

simple_item

simple_driver

193

UVM TLM 1.0

n

Push

Pull

put_producer

get_producer

put()

get()

put_consumer

get_consumer

Fifo
producer

fifo

consumer

nOne-to-One
Analysis

(broadcast)
write_producer

write()

write_subscriber
write_subscriber

One-to-Many

Many-to-One

write_subscriber
194

Push Mode
n

Push mode

put_producer

put()

put_consumer

class producer extends uvm_component; ...

uvm_blocking_put_port #(packet) put_port;
virtual task main_phase(uvm_phase phase); ...
put_port.put(tr);
endtask
class consumer extends uvm_component; ...
endclass
uvm_blocking_put_imp #(packet, consumer) put_export;
virtual task put(packet tr);
process_tr(tr);
endtask
endclass
class environment extends uvm_env; ...
producer p; consumer c;
virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
p.put_port.connect(c.put_export); // connection required!
endfunction
endclass

195

Pull Mode
n

Pull mode

get_producer

get()

get_consumer

class producer extends uvm_component; ...

uvm_blocking_get_imp #(packet, producer) get_export;
virtual task get(output packet tr);
tr = packet::type_id::create(tr, this);
endtask
class consumer extends uvm_component; ...
endclass
uvm_blocking_get_port #(packet) get_port;
virtual task main_phase(uvm_phase phase); ...
get_port.get(tr);
endtask
endclass
class environment extends uvm_env; ...
producer p; consumer c;
virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
c.get_port.connect(p.get_export); // connection required!
endfunction
endclass

196

FIFO Mode
n

FIFO Mode

Connect producer to consumer via uvm_tlm_fifo

producer

uvm_tlm_fifo

consumer

class environment extends uvm_env; ...

producer p;
consumer c;
uvm_tlm_fifo #(packet) tr_fifo;
virtual funtion void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
p = producer::type_id::create(p, this);
c = consumer::type_id::create(c, this);
tr_fifo = new(tr_fifo, this); // No proxy (type_id) for TLM ports
endfunction
virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
p.put_port.connect(tr_fifo.put_export); // connection required!
c.get_port.connect(tr_fifo.get_export); // connection required!
endfunction
endclass

197

Analysis Port
n

Analysis
write_producer
(broadcast)
l

write()

Analysis port can be left unconnected

write_subscriber
write_subscriber

class producer extends uvm_component; ...

uvm_analysis_port #(packet) analysis_port;
virtual task main_phase(uvm_phase phase); ...
analysis_port.write(tr);
endtask
class subscriber extends uvm_component; ...
endclass
uvm_analysis_imp #(packet, subscriber) analysis_export;
virtual function void write(packet tr); // required!
process_transaction(tr);
endfunction
endclass
class
environment extends uvm_env; ...
producer p; subscriber s0, s1; // other subscribers
virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase); ...
p.analysis_port.connect(s0.analysis_export);
p.analysis_port.connect(s1.analysis_export);
endfunction
endclass

198

Port Pass-Through
n

Connecting sub-component TLM ports

l

Use same port type

agent
monitor

write()

scoreboard

class monitor extends uvm_monitor; // other code not shown ...

uvm_analysis_port #(packet) analysis_port;
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase); ...
this.analysis_port = new("analysis_port", this);
endfunction
endclass
class agent extends uvm_agent; // other code not shown ...
monitor mon;
uvm_analysis_port #(packet) analysis_port;
virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
this.analysis_port = mon.analysis_port;
endfunction
class environment extends uvm_env; ...
endclass scoreboard sb; agent
virtual function void connect_phase(...); ...
agent.analysis_port.connect(sb.analysis_export);
endfunction
endclass

199

UVM TLM 2.0

n

Blocking
b_transport(tx,delay)
initiator

target

Non-Blocking
nb_transport(tx,p,delay)
initiator

target

200

Blocking Transport Initiator

b_transport(tx, delay)
initiator

target

class initiator extends uvm_component;

uvm_tlm_b_initiator_socket #(packet) i_socket;
// constructor not shown
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
i_socket=new(i_socket, this);
endfunction
virtual task main_phase(uvm_phase phase);
packet tx = packet::type_id::create(tx, this);
uvm_tlm_time delay = new();
i_socket.b_transport(tx, delay);
$display(realtime = %t, delay.get_realtime(1ns));
endtask
endclass

201

Blocking Transport Target

b_transport(tx,delay)
initiator

target

class target extends uvm_component; ...

uvm_tlm_b_target_socket #(target, packet) t_socket;
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
t_socket=new("t_socket", this);
endfunction
virtual task b_transport(packet tx, uvm_tlm_time delay);
#10ns;
[Link]();
[Link](10ns, 1ns);
endtask class environment extends uvm_env;
endclass
initiator intr;
target
trgt;
// component_utils, constructor and build_phase not shown
virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
intr.i_socket.connect(trgt.t_socket);
endfunction
endclass

202

Non-Blocking Transport Initiator

nb_transport_fw(tx, p, delay)
initiator

nb_transport_bw(tx, p, delay)

target

class initiator extends uvm_component;

uvm_tlm_nb_initiator_socket #(initiator, packet) i_socket;
// component_utils, constructor and build_phase not shown
virtual task main_phase(uvm_phase phase);
uvm_tlm_sync_e sync; uvm_tlm_phase_e p; uvm_tlm_time delay = new;
packet tx = packet::type_id::create("tx", this);
phase.raise_objection(this);
[Link]();
sync = i_socket.nb_transport_fw(tx, p, delay);
phase.drop_objection(this);
endtask
virtual function uvm_tlm_sync_e nb_transport_bw(packet tx,
ref uvm_tlm_phase_e p, input uvm_tlm_time delay);
// ... Process acknowledgement from target
return (UVM_TLM_COMPLETED);
endfunction
endclass

203

Non-Blocking Transport Target

nb_transport_fw(tx, p, delay)
initiator

nb_transport_bw(tx, p, delay)

target

class target extends uvm_component;

uvm_tlm_nb_target_socket #(target, packet) t_socket;
// component_utils, constructor and build_phase not shown
virtual function uvm_tlm_sync_e nb_transport_fw(packet tx,
ref uvm_tlm_phase_e p, input uvm_tlm_time delay);
[Link]();
return (UVM_TLM_ACCEPTED);
fork process(tx); join_none // for delayed acknowledgement
endfunction
virtual task process (packet tx);
uvm_tlm_sync_e sync; uvm_tlm_phase_e p; uvm_tlm_time delay = new;
// ... After completion of tx processing
sync = t_socket.nb_transport_bw(tx, p, delay);
endtask
endclass

204

UVM Transaction Debug

n

Automatic transaction tracing

l
l
l

Parent/Child relationship
Identify cause-and-effect, request-response
Identify execution stream and start/end time

Environment debug
l
l
l
l

From child to parent, parent to each child

From one side of a connection to another
By hierarchical name (Absolute, Relative)
Components internal state debug

205

UVM Transaction Debug

For VCS 2011-03 onwards
n

Compile-time switches:
l
l
l

+define+UVM_TR_RECORD
-ntb_opts uvm-1.0
-debug or -debug_pp or debug_all

Run-time control:
l

+UVM_TR_RECORD for transaction recording

u

visualize transactions in time on waveform

+UVM_LOG_RECORD for log message recording

u

visualize log messages within components on waveform

206

UVM Transaction Debug in DVE

Slave transaction Stream

Tooltip reveals details

Master transaction
stream
Hierarchical
Transaction View

207

Debugging UVM Transaction Log Messages

Log stream

Tooltip reveals details

Transaction
stream

208

Getting Help on DVE

DVE user guide:

l

DVE tutorial:
l

$VCS_HOME/doc/UserGuide/pdf/dve_ug.pdf
$VCS_HOME/gui/dve/examples/tutorial

UVM transaction debugging examples

l

$VCS_HOME/doc/examples/uvm/xbus_tr_record/examples

209

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Describe and implement TLM port/socket for

communication between components

210

Lab 4 Introduction
Implement & configure physical device drivers

30 min

Add virtual
interface to driver
and reset sequence

Configure virtual
interface in Test

Compile
and
Simulate

211

Appendix

TLM 2.0 Generic Payload

212

TLM 2.0 Generic Payload (1/4)

n

TLM 2.0 Generic Payload is a generic bus read/write

access transaction type
l

Used for cross-platform interoperability (e.g. SystemC)

typedef enum {
UVM_TLM_READ_COMMAND,
UVM_TLM_WRITE_COMMAND,
UVM_TLM_IGNORE_COMMAND
} uvm_tlm_command_e;

// Bus read operation

// Bus write operation
// No bus operation

typedef enum {
UVM_TLM_OK_RESPONSE = 1,
// Bus operation completed succesfully
UVM_TLM_INCOMPLETE_RESPONSE = 0,
// Transaction was not delivered to
target
UVM_TLM_GENERIC_ERROR_RESPONSE = -1,
// Bus operation had an error
UVM_TLM_ADDRESS_ERROR_RESPONSE = -2, // Invalid address specified
UVM_TLM_COMMAND_ERROR_RESPONSE = -3, // Invalid command specified
UVM_TLM_BURST_ERROR_RESPONSE = -4,
// Invalid burst specified
UVM_TLM_BYTE_ENABLE_ERROR_RESPONSE = -5 // Invalid byte enabling specified
} uvm_tlm_response_status_e;

213

TLM 2.0 Generic Payload (2/4)

class uvm_tlm_generic_payload extends uvm_sequence_item;
rand bit [63:0]
m_address;
rand uvm_tlm_command_e
m_command;
rand byte unsigned
m_data[];
rand int unsigned
m_length;
// Number of bytes to be copied to or from
// the m_data array
rand uvm_tlm_response_status_e
m_response_status;
rand byte unsigned
m_byte_enable[];
// Indicates valid m_data array elements
rand int unsigned
m_byte_enable_length;
// Number of elements in
m_byte_enable array
rand int unsigned
m_streaming_width; // Number of bytes transferred on each
beat
`uvm_object_utils_begin(uvm_tlm_generic_payload)
`uvm_field_int(m_address, UVM_ALL_ON);
`uvm_field_enum(uvm_tlm_command_e, m_command, UVM_ALL_ON);
`uvm_field_array_int(m_data, UVM_ALL_ON);
`uvm_field_int(m_length, UVM_ALL_ON);
`uvm_field_enum(uvm_tlm_response_status_e, m_response_status, UVM_ALL_ON);
`uvm_field_array_int(m_byte_enable, UVM_ALL_ON);
`uvm_field_int(m_streaming_width, UVM_ALL_ON);
`uvm_object_utils_end
Continued on next slide

214

TLM 2.0 Generic Payload (3/4)

function new(string name="");
virtual function uvm_tlm_command_e get_command();
virtual function void set_command(uvm_tlm_command_e command);
virtual function bit is_read();
virtual function void set_read();
virtual function bit is_write();
virtual function void set_write();
virtual function void set_address(bit [63:0] addr);
virtual function bit [63:0] get_address();
virtual function void get_data (output byte unsigned p []);
virtual function void set_data(ref byte unsigned p []);
virtual function int unsigned get_data_length();
virtual function void set_data_length(int unsigned length);
virtual function int unsigned get_streaming_width();
virtual function void set_streaming_width(int unsigned width);
virtual function void get_byte_enable(output byte unsigned p[]);
virtual function void set_byte_enable(ref byte unsigned p[]);
virtual function int unsigned get_byte_enable_length();
virtual function void set_byte_enable_length(int unsigned length);
virtual function uvm_tlm_response_status_e get_response_status();
virtual function void set_response_status(uvm_tlm_response_status_e status);
virtual function bit is_response_ok();
virtual function bit is_response_error();
virtual function string get_response_string(); // Continued on next page

215

TLM 2.0 Generic Payload (4/4)

n

TLM 2.0 Generic Payload can be extended to add

additional members
l

Requires implementation of uvm_tlm_extension class

// Continued from previous page

local uvm_tlm_extension_base m_extensions [uvm_tlm_extension_base];
function uvm_tlm_extension_base set_extension(uvm_tlm_extension_base ext);
function int get_num_extensions();
function uvm_tlm_extension_base get_extension(uvm_tlm_extension_base
ext_handle);
function void clear_extension(uvm_tlm_extension_base ext_handle);
function void clear_extensions();
endclass
class uvm_tlm_extension #(type T=int) extends
uvm_tlm_extension_base;
typedef uvm_tlm_extension#(T) this_type;
local static this_type m_my_tlm_ext_type = ID();
function new(string name="");
static function this_type ID();
virtual function uvm_tlm_extension_base get_type_handle();
virtual function string get_type_handle_name();
endclass

216

Agenda: Day 2
DAY
2

Component Configuration & Factory

TLM Communication

Scoreboard & Coverage

UVM Callback

217

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Build re-usable self checking scoreboards by using

the in-built UVM comparator classes

Implement functional coverage

218

Scoreboard - Introduction
n Todays
l
l

challenges

Self checking testbenches need scoreboards

Develop a scoreboard once, re-use many times in different
testbenches
Need different scoreboarding mechanisms for different
applications
Must be aware of DUTs data transformation

Solution: UVM scoreboard class extension with tailored

functions for matching expected & observed data:
In-order expects
Data transformation
Built in Analysis Exports in the Comparator classes

219

Scoreboard Data Streams

Any ordered data sequence. Not just packets.
Application

Streams

Networking

Packets in, packets out

DSP

Samples in, samples out

Modems, codecs

Frames in, code samples out

Busses, controllers

Requests in, responses out

DS

act

u al

Arbitrary
transformation

d
ecte
exp

DUT

Any number
of input streams

Any number
of output streams
Arbitrary
routing

Arbitrary
interleaving
220

Scoreboard Implementation
n

Use uvm_in_order_class_comparator for checking

class scoreboard extends uvm_scoreboard; // utils macro and constructor

typedef uvm_in_order_class_comparator #(packet) cmpr_type;
cmpr_type cmpr;
Environment
uvm_analysis_export #(packet) before_export;
Scoreboard
uvm_analysis_export #(packet) after_export;
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
Comparator
super.build_phase(phase);
cmpr = cmpr_type::type_id::create(cmpr, this);
before_export = cmpr.before_export;
after_export = cmpr.after_export;
endfunction
Monitor Monitor
virtual function void report_phase(uvm_phase phase);
`uvm_info(Scoreboard Report,
$sformatf(Matches = %0d, Mismatches = %0d,
cmpr.m_matches, cmpr.m_mismatches), UVM_MEDIUM);
endfunction
endclass

221

Scoreboarding: Monitor
n

Monitors supplies scoreboard with

expected and actual transactions
Embed analysis

Environment
Scoreboard
Comparator

class iMonitor extends uvm_monitor; ...

port
virtual router_io sigs;
uvm_analysis_port #(packet) analysis_port;
// uvm_component_utils macro and constructor
Monitor
virtual function void build_phase(); ...
analysis_port = new(analysis_port, this);
if (!uvm_config_db#(virtual router_io)::get(this, "",
"router_io", sigs))
`uvm_fatal("CFGERR", );
Get DUT
endfunction
interface
virtual task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
forever begin
packet tr = packet::type_id::create("tr", this);
get_packet(tr);
Pass observed transaction to
analysis_port.write(tr);
collector components via TLM
end
endtask
analysis port
virtual task get_packet(packet tr); ...
endclass

222

Embed Monitor in Agent

n

Agent extends from uvm_agent class

l
l

Contains a driver, a sequencer and a monitor

Contains configuration and other parameters

Two operating modes:

l

Test

Active:
Emulates a device in the
system interfaces with DUT
u Instantiates a driver,
sequencer and monitor

Environment
Scoreboard

Passive:
Operates passively
u Only monitor instantiated
and configured
u

Configure

Master Agent
Generator

Cfg
Slave Agent

Driver

Bus
Monitor

DUT

223

UVM Agent Example

class master_agent extends uvm_agent;
uvm_analysis_port #(packet) analysis_port;
// utils macro and constructor not shown
sequencer seqr;
driver
drv;
Sequencer, Driver and Monitor
iMonitor mon;
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
is_active flag is built-in
if (is_active == UVM_ACTIVE) begin
seqr = packet_sequencer::type_id::create("seqr",this);
drv = driver::type_id::create("drv",this);
Create sequencer
end
mon
= iMonitor::type_id::create("mon",this); and driver if active
endfunction
function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
analysis_port = mon.analysis_port;
if(is_active == UVM_ACTIVE)
drv.seq_item_port.connect(seqr.seq_item_export);
endfunction : connect
Connect sequencer to
endclass

driver

224

Using UVM Agent in Environment

n

Agent simplifies environment

l

Easier to maintain and debug

Test Top
Environment

Scoreboard
Configure
class router_env extends uvm_env;
master_agent m_agent;
slave_agent s_agent;
master_agent
slave_agent
scoreboard
sb;
// utils and constructor not shown
virtual function void build_phase();
DUT
super.build_phase(phase);
m_agent = master_agent::type_id::create("m_agent", this);
s_agent = slave_agent::type_id::create("s_agent", this);
sb = scoreboard::type_id::create("sb", this);
uvm_config_db#(uvm_active_passive_enum)::set(this, "m_agent",
"is_active", UVM_ACTIVE);
uvm_config_db#(uvm_active_passive_enum)::set(this, "s_agent",
"is_active", UVM_ACTIVE);
endfunction
virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
m_agent.analysis_port.connect(sb.before_export);
s_agent.analysis_port.connect(sb.after_export);
endfunction
endclass

225

Parameterized Scoreboard
n

Scoreboard can be parameterized

l

Must use uvm_component_param_utils macro

class scoreboard #(type T = packet) extends uvm_scoreboard;

...
uvm_in_order_class_comparator #(T) comparator;
`uvm_component_param_utils_begin(scoreboard #(T))
`uvm_field_object(comparator, UVM_PRINT | UVM_COPY)
`uvm_component_utils_end
...
Macro end stays the same
endclass

In environment, set parameter or use default

class router_env extends uvm_env;
typedef scoreboard #(packet) pkt_scoreboard;
pkt_scoreboard sb;
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
sb = pkt_scoreboard::type_id::create(sb, this);
...
endfunction
endclass

226

Scoreboard: Transformed Transaction

n

If transformation is required

class scoreboard extends uvm_scoreboard; ...

uvm_analysis_export #(packet) before_export;
uvm_analysis_export #(output_type) after_export;
transformer xform;
Use
uvm_algorithmic_comparator
#(packet, output_type, transformer) comparator; algorithmic
function void build_phase(uvm_phase);
comparator
before_export = new(before_export, this);
after_export = new(after_export, this);
xform = transformer::type_id::creat(xform, this);
comp = comp_type::type_id::create(comp, this);
endfunction
Scoreboard
...
Comparator
endclass
uvm_in_order_comparator

class transformer extends uvm_object; ...

function output_type transform (packet tr);
// perform transform
endfunction
endclass

Transformer
transform()

227

Scoreboard: Out-Of-Order
n

User can implement out-of-order scoreboard

`uvm_analysis_imp_decl(_before)
`uvm_analysis_imp_decl(_after)
class scoreboard #(type T = packet) extends uvm_scoreboard;
typedef scoreboard #(T) this_type;
`uvm_component_param_utils(this_type)
uvm_analysis_imp_before #(T, this_type) before_export;
uvm_analysis_imp_after #(T, this_type) after_export;
int m_matches = 0, m_mismatches = 0, m_orphaned = 0;
T pkt_list[$];
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);

[Link](name, parent);

before_export = new("before_export", this);

after_export = new("after_export", this);
endfunction

228

Scoreboard: Out-Of-Order
virtual function void write_before(T pkt);
pkt_list.push_back(pkt);
endfunction
virtual function void write_after(T pkt);
int index[$];
index = pkt_list.find_index() with ([Link] == [Link]);
foreach(index[i]) begin
if ([Link](pkt_list[index[i]]) begin
`uvm_info(Packet Match", pkt.get_name(), UVM_MEDIUM);
m_matches++;
pkt_list.delete(index[i]);
return;
end
end
`uvm_warning(Packet Not Found, {\n, [Link]()});
m_orphaned++;
endtask
endclass

229

Functional Coverage
n

Measure the random stimulus to track progress

towards verification goal

What to measure?
l

Configuration: Has testbench tried all legal environment

possibilities?
u

Stimulus: Has testbench generated all representative

transactions, including errors?
u

N drivers, M Slaves, bus addresses, etc.

Reads, writes, interrupts, long packets, short bursts,

overlapping operations

Correctness: Has DUT responded correctly to the

stimulus?
u

Reads, writes, interrupts, long packets, short bursts,

overlapping operations
230

Connecting Coverage to Testbench

n

SystemVerilog Testbench Structure

Cover
Configuration

Testcase
Configure

Coverage

Generator

Coverage

Master

Self Check

Physical
device driver

Bus
Monitor

Cover
Stimulus

Cover
Correctness

Slave
Bus
Monitor

Physical
device driver

DUT
231

Configuration Coverage
covergroup router_cfg_cg(); endgroup
class config_coverage extends uvm_component;
bit coverage_enable = 0;
router_cfg cfg; router_cfg_cg cfg_cg;
`uvm_component_utils_begin(config_coverage)
`uvm_field_object(cfg, UVM_DEFAULT)
`uvm_field_int(coverage_enable, UVM_DEFAULT)
`uvm_component_utils_end;
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
if (coverage_enable) begin
if (!uvm_config_db #(router_cfg)::get(this, "", "cfg", cfg) begin
`uvm_fatal();
end
cfg_cg = new();
end
endfunction
virtual function void end_of_elaboration_phase(uvm_phase phase);
if (coverage_enable)
cfg_cg.sample(cfg.num_of_active_ports);
endfunction
endclass

232

Configuration Coverage
n

Build configuration coverage component in test

class test_ports extends test_base;

router_cfg cfg;
config_coverage cfg_cov;
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
cfg = router_cfg::type_id::create("cfg", this);
if (![Link]()) begin
`uvm_fatal();
end
uvm_config_db #(router_cfg)::set(this, "cfg_cov", "cfg", cfg);
uvm_config_db #(int)::set(this, "cfg_cov", "coverage_enable", 1);
cfg_cov = config_coverage::type_id::create("cfg_cov", this);
endfunction
endclass

233

Stimulus Coverage
covergroup packet_cg with function sample(bit [3:0] sa);
coverpoint sa;
endgroup : packet_cg
class packet_coverage extends uvm_component;
bit coverage_enable = 0;
Packet cover
packet_cg pkt_cg;
group
`uvm_component_utils_begin(packet_coverage)
`uvm_field_int(coverage_enable, UVM_DEFAULT)
`uvm_component_utils_end;
uvm_analysis_imp #(packet, packet_coverage) cov_export;
TLM
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
connection to
super.build_phase(phase);
monitor
cov_export = new("export", this);
if (coverage_enable) pkt_cg = new();
Export method
endfunction
called with
function void write(packet p);
monitored packets
if (coverage_enable) pkt_cg.sample([Link]);
endfunction : write
endclass

234

Correctness Coverage
covergroup packet_sb_cg with function sample(bit [3:0] sa, da);
coverpoint sa;
coverpoint da;
cross sa, da;
endgroup : packet_sb_cg
`uvm_analysis_imp_decl(_before)
`uvm_analysis_imp_decl(_after)
class scoreboard #(type T = packet) extends uvm_scoreboard;
bit coverage_enable = 0;
Packet cover
packet_sb_cg pkt_cg;
group
// component_utils and other code
Export method
virtual function void write_after(T pkt);
...;
called with
if ([Link](pkt_ref) begin
monitored packets
m_matches++;
if (coverage_enable) pkt_cg.sample(pkt_ref.sa, pkt_ref.da);
end else begin
m_mismatches++;
end
...;
endfunction : write_after
endclass

235

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Build re-usable self checking scoreboards by using

the in-built UVM comparator classes

Implement functional coverage

236

Appendix

Multi-Stream Scoreboard

237

Scoreboard: Multi-Stream
`uvm_analysis_imp_decl(_before)
`uvm_analysis_imp_decl(_after)
class scoreboard #(type T = packet, int num=16) extends uvm_scoreboard;
typedef scoreboard #(T) this_type;
`uvm_component_param_utils(this_type)
uvm_analysis_imp_before #(T, this_type) before_export;
uvm_analysis_imp_after #(T, this_type) after_export;
uvm_analysis_port #(T) comparator_before_port[num];
uvm_analysis_port #(T) comparator_after_port[num];
uvm_in_order_class_comparator #(T) comparator[num];
function new (string name, uvm_component parent);
[Link](name, parent);
before_export = new(before_export, this);
after_export = new(after_export, this);
for (int i=0; i < num; i++) begin
comparator[i] = new($sformatf(comparator_%0d, i), this);
comparator_before_port[i] =
new($sformatf(comparator_before_port_%0d, i), this);
comparator_after_port[i] =
new($sformatf(comparator_after_port_%0d, i), this);
end
endfunction
... // Continued on next page

238

Scoreboard: Multi-Stream
virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
for (int i=0; i < num; i++) begin
comparator_before_port[i].connect(comparator[i].before_export);
comparator_after_port[i].connect(comparator[i].after_export);
end
endfunction
virtual function void write_before(T pkt);
comparator_before_port[[Link]].write(pkt);
endfunction
virtual function void write_after(T pkt);
comparator_after_port[[Link]].write(pkt);
endfunction
endclass

239

240

Agenda: Day 2
DAY
2

Component Configuration & Factory

TLM Communication

Scoreboard & Coverage

UVM Callback

241

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Build faade callback classes

Embed callback methods

Implement callback to inject errors

Implement callback to implement coverage

242

Changing Behavior of Components

n

How to add new functionality to a component?

l

Extend existing component class

class error_driver extends my_driver;
virtual task send();
endclass

driver_coverage

?
delay_driver

?
l

How to add multiple extensions?

error_driver

delay_driver

class delay_driver extends my_driver;

?
class delay_driver extends error_driver;

driver

Multiple extensions can cause unstable OOP hierarchy

Use callbacks to add new capabilities, without

creating huge OOP hierarchy
4
3
2
1

243

Implementing UVM Callbacks

n
n
n
n

Embed callback methods in components

Create a faade callback class
Develop callback classes extending from faade callback class
Create and register callback objects in environment
uvm_object class
uvm_callbacks_base class

uvm_component class

Embed
callback
methods

Component class

Create and
register in Test

User callback faade class

Create
faade
class

4
Coverage callback class

Test class

uvm_callbacks class

Error Injection callback class

Implement callback methods

244

Step 1: Embed Callback Methods

n

Typically before and/or after major operation

1a. Register callback

class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);
with component
`uvm_register_cb(driver, driver_callback)
// utils macro and constructor not shown
task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
1b. Embed callback methods
forever begin
with uvm_do_callbacks
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req); macro
`uvm_do_callbacks(driver, driver_callback, pre_send(this, req));
send(req);
Callback class name
User must create (see next slide)
component class
name
`uvm_do_callbacks(driver, driver_callback, post_send(this, req));
seq_item_port.item_done();
end
Callback method
endtask
User must embed in callback class (see next
endclass
slide)

245

Step 2: Declare the faade Class

n

Create faade class called in uvm_do_callbacks macro

l
l
l

Typically declared in same file as the component

All methods must be declared as virtual
Leave the body of methods empty
2. Create callback faade class

class driver_callback extends uvm_callback;

function new(string name = driver_callback);
[Link](name);
Empty body: noop
endfunction
virtual task pre_send(driver drv, packet tr); endtask
virtual task post_send(driver drv, packet tr); endtask
endclass
Argument types must match
types in `uvm_do_callbacks()
macro

246

Step 3: Implement Callback: Error

n

Create error class by extending from faade class

l

Embed error in callback method

3. Implement error callback

class driver_err_callback extends driver_callback;

virtual task pre_send(driver drv, packet tr);
[Link]();
endtask
endclass

247

Step 4: Create and Register Callback Objects

n

Instantiate the callback object in test

Construct and register callback object

class driver_err_test extends test_base;

// utils macro and constructor not shown
driver_err_callback drv_err_cb;

4a. Create callback objects

virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);

super.connect_phase(phase);
4b. Register callback objects
drv_err_cb = new();
uvm_callbacks #(driver, driver_callback)::add([Link], drv_err_cb);
uvm_callbacks #(driver, driver_callback)::display();
endfunction
endclass
4c. Visually verify the registration (optional)

248

Driver Coverage Example

n

If there are no analysis ports in driver

l

Callbacks can be the hooks for coverage also

typedef class driver;

class driver_callback extends uvm_callback;
// constructor not shown
virtual task pre_send(driver drv, packet tr); endtask
virtual task post_send(driver drv, packet tr); endtask
endclass
class driver extends uvm_driver #(packet);
`uvm_register_cb(driver, driver_callback)
// utils macro and constructor not shown
task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
forever begin
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
`uvm_do_callbacks(driver, driver_callback, pre_send(this, req));
send(req);
`uvm_do_callbacks(driver, driver_callback, post_send(this, req));
seq_item_port.item_done();
end
endtask
endclass

249

Implement Coverage via Callback

n

Create coverage class by extending from faade class

l
l
l

Define covergroup in coverage class

Construct covergroup in class constructor
Sample coverage in callback method
3a. Extend faade class
class driver_cov_callback extends driver_callback;
covergroup drv_cov with function sample(packet pkt);
coverpoint [Link]; coverpoint [Link];
cross [Link], [Link];
endgroup
function new();
3b. Implement coverage
drv_cov = new();
endfunction
virtual task post_send(driver drv, packet tr);
drv_cov.sample(tr);
endtask
endclass

250

Create and Register Callback Objects

n

Instantiate the callback object in Environment

Construct and register callback object in build phase

class test_driver_cov extends test_base;

// utils macro and constructor not shown
driver_cov_callback drv_cov_cb;

4a. Create callback objects

virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);

super.connect_phase(phase);
drv_cov_cb = new();
uvm_callbacks #(driver, driver_callback)::add([Link], drv_cov_cb);
endfunction
endclass
4b. Register callback objects

251

Sequence Callback Methods

n

uvm_sequence::pre_do() (task)
l called after the sequence::wait_for_grant() call and after the
sequencer has selected this sequence, but before the item is
randomized

uvm_sequence::mid_do() (function)
l called after the sequence item randomized, but before it is sent
to driver

uvm_sequence::post_do() (function)
l called after the driver indicates item completion,using
item_done/put

uvm_sequence::pre_body() (task)
l Called before sequence body execution

uvm_sequence::post_body() (task)
l Called after sequence body execution

User should not call

these methods directly.
Instead override in
sequence definition

252

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Build faade callback classes

Embed callback methods

Implement callback to inject errors

Implement callback to implement coverage

253

Lab 5 Introduction
Implement monitors and scoreboard

60 min

Implement
Monitor
Classes

Implement
Scoreboard
Class

Compile
and
Simulate

254

Agenda: Day 3
DAY
3

Sequence Library/Virtual Sequencer

10

More on Phasing

11

Register Abstraction Layer

12

Summary

255

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Create reusable sequences/sequence library in

UVM

Co-ordinate sequences at multiple interfaces

through Virtual Sequences and Sequencers

256

UVM 1.0 Sequence Library

n

Define related sequences

Base

class base_sequence extends uvm_sequence#(packet);

Atomic

class atomic_seq extends base_sequence;

`uvm_add_to_seq_lib(atomic_seq, packet_seq_lib)

Four

class four_item_seq extends base_sequence;

`uvm_add_to_seq_lib(four_item_seq, packet_seq_lib)

SAeq3

sa
==3

sa
==3

class SAeq3_seq extends base_sequence;

`uvm_add_to_seq_lib(SAeq3_seq, packet_seq_lib)

Group together in a library

class packet_seq_lib extends uvm_sequence_library #(packet);

endclass

257

Building a Sequence Library Package

To enhance reuseability,
encapsulate sequence library
classes in a package

A library class is a
repository of
sequences of a
particular data
type

package packet_seq_lib_pkg;
import uvm_pkg::*;
class packet extends uvm_sequence_item;
...
endclass
class packet_seq_lib extends uvm_sequence_library #(packet);
`uvm_object_utils(packet_seq_lib)
Macro builds the
`uvm_sequence_library_utils(packet_seq_lib)
infrastructure of
function new(string name = "packet_seq_lib");
the sequence
[Link](name);
library
init_sequence_library();
Method allows
endfunction
registration of
endclass
sequences into the
// continued on next page

library
258

Building a Sequence Library

n

Add base sequence and user sequence(s) to package

// continued from previous page
class packet_base_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(packet);
// object_utils macro and constructor not shown
virtual task pre_body();
if (starting_phase != null)
See note
starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
endtask
Extend from base
virtual task post_body();
sequence to
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.drop_objection(this); create user
endtask
sequence
endclass
class atomic_sequence extends packet_base_sequence;
`uvm_object_utils(atomic_sequence)
`uvm_add_to_seq_lib(atomic_sequence, packet_seq_lib)
// Constructor not shown
registers sequence in the
virtual task body();
library
`uvm_do(req);
endtask
endclass
endpackage

259

Register Sequence in Sequence Library

n

Register additional test sequences as needed

class generic_sequence extends packet_sequence;

int item_count = 1; // utils macro and constructor not shown
`uvm_add_to_seq_lib(generic_sequence, packet_seq_lib)
task body();
if (!uvm_resource_db#(int)::read_by_name())
...
repeat(item_count)begin
`uvm_do(req);
end
endtask class SAeq3_sequence extends generic_sequence;
`uvm_object_utils(SAeq3_sequence)
endclass
`uvm_add_to_seq_lib(SAeq3_sequence, packet_seq_lib)
// Constructor not shown
virtual task body();
if (!uvm_resource_db#(int)::read_by_name())

repeat(item_count) begin
`uvm_do_with(req, { sa == 3; } );
end
endtask
endclass

260

Reference Sequence Library in Environment

n

In the environment, make the sequence library the

default sequence for the sequencer

class router_env extends uvm_env;

router_agent agent;
// utils macro and constructor not shown
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
agent = router_agent::type_id::create("agent", this);
uvm_config_db #(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this, "seqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", packet_seq_lib::get_type());
endfunction
endclass

261

Create Test with Random Sequences

n

By default ten random sequences from the

sequence library will be executed

program automatic test;

import uvm_pkg::*;
import packet_seq_lib_pkg::*;
// include other classes
class test_base extends uvm_test;
router_env env;
// component_utils and constructor not shown
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
env = router_env::type_id::create(env, this);
endfunction
endclass
initial
run_test();
endprogram Compile with vcs: (using UVM in VCS installation)
vcs sverilogntb_opts uvm packet_seq_lib_pkg.sv [Link]
Simulate with:
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=test_base

262

Configure Sequence Library

n

The default execution behavior can be modified via

the UVM uvm_sequence_library_cfg class
class uvm_sequence_library_cfg extends uvm_object;
`uvm_object_utils(uvm_sequence_library_cfg)
uvm_sequence_lib_mode selection_mode;
int unsigned min_random_count, max_random_count;
function new(string name="",
uvm_sequence_lib_mode mode=UVM_SEQ_LIB_RAND,
int unsigned min=1, int unsigned max=10);
endclass

Combination of min_/max_random_count sets the

number of sequences to execute
selection_mode can be one of four modes:
UVM_SEQ_LIB_RAND

(Random sequence)

UVM_SEQ_LIB_RANDC (Random cyclic sequence)

UVM_SEQ_LIB_ITEM (Random item. No sequence)
UVM_SEQ_LIB_USER

(User defined sequence execution)

263

Configure Sequence Library Example

n

In test, set sequence library configuration values

program automatic test;

import uvm_pkg::*;
import seq_lib_pkg::*;
// include other classes
class test_5_seq extends test_base;
uvm_sequence_library_cfg seq_cfg;
// utils macro and constructor not shown
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
seq_cfg = new("seq_cfg", UVM_SEQ_LIB_RAND, 5, 5);
uvm_config_db #(uvm_sequence_library_cfg)::set(this,
*.seqr.main_phase, "default_sequence.config", seq_cfg);
endfunction
endclass
initial
run_test();
endprogram

264

Virtual Sequences
n

When integrating multiple agents into a higher level

block, how can the sequencers in each of these be
managed?
l

Stimulus timing across multiple DUT interfaces may need to

be synchronized

Solution: Virtual Sequences

l

l
l

Helps synchronize the timing and the data across the

different interfaces
Allows fine grained control of the test environment
Doesnt have its own data item, used to control other
sequences and sequence drivers

265

Virtual Sequence/Sequencer
n

Typical sequence interacts with a single DUT interface

When multiple DUT interfaces need to be synchronized

a virtual sequence is required

Virtual Sequences in environment/test synchronize

timing and data between different interfaces
TOP
Environment
Virtual Sequencer
Sequencer

Virtual sequence

Sequencer

sequence

Sequencer

Agent

sequences

M_Driver

sequence

Sequencer

Agent

Sequences

Monitor

M_Driver

Monitor

266

Virtual Sequence
n
n

Embed sequence from different agents

In body() method, control these sequences
class virtual_sequence extends uvm_sequence;
`uvm_object_utils(virtual_sequence)
`uvm_declare_p_sequencer(virtual_sequencer)
bfm_sequence bfm0_seq;
bfm_sequence bfm1_seq;
virtual task body();
`uvm_do_on(bfm0_seq, p_sequencer.bfm0_sqr);
`uvm_do_on(bfm1_seq, p_sequencer.bfm1_sqr);
endtask
Environment
endclass
Virtual Sequencer
bfm0_sqr
bfm1_sqr

bfm_sqr
bfm_seq

Virtual sequence
bfm0_seq

bfm_agt0

bfm1_seq

bfm_sqr

bfm_agt1

bfm_seq

267

Virtual Sequencer
n

Embed sequencers managing the sequences

class virtual_sequencer extends uvm_sequencer; ...
bfm_sequencer bfm0_sqr;
bfm_sequencer bfm1_sqr;
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
[Link](name, parent);
endfunction
endclass
Environment
Virtual Sequencer
bfm0_sqr

Virtual sequence

bfm1_sqr

bfm_sqr
bfm_seq

bfm_agt0

bfm0_seq

bfm1_seq

bfm_sqr

bfm_agt1

bfm_seq

268

Connect Sequencer to Virtual Sequencer

n

Disable the controlled sequencers

class environment extends uvm_env; ...

virtual_sequencer v_sqr; bfm_agent bfm0_agt, bfm1_agt;
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
// creation of objecs not shown
uvm_config_db#(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this,
"*.bfm0_agt.sqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", bfm_base_sequence::get_type());
uvm_config_db#(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this,
"*.bfm1_agt.sqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", bfm_base_sequence::get_type());
endfunction
// continued on the next page

Disable child sequencers

Assuming bfm_base_sequence
is noop
269

Connect Sequencer to Virtual Sequencer

n

Connect controlled sequencers to virtual sequencer

// Continued from
virtual function
v_sqr.bfm0_sqr
v_sqr.bfm1_sqr
endfunction
endclass

previous page
void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
= bfm_agt0.bfm_sqr;
= bfm_agt1.bfm_sqr

Environment
Virtual Sequencer
bfm0_sqr

Virtual sequence

bfm1_sqr

bfm_sqr
bfm_seq

bfm_agt0

bfm0_seq

bfm1_seq

bfm_sqr

bfm_agt1

bfm_seq

270

Protecting Stimulus (Grab/Ungrab )

n

Sequence can reserve a Sequencer for exclusive use

l
l

Until explicitly released

Other request for exclusive use or stimulus injection will be
blocked
class simple_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(packet);
// utils macro and constructor not shown
Sequence requesting grab()
virtual task body();
reserves parent sequencer for
grab();
exclusive use
repeat(10) begin
`uvm_info(get_name(), "In body()", UVM_HIGH)
`uvm_do_with(req,{addr == 6; data == 6;})
end
ungrab() method releases grab for
ungrab();
default/specified sequencer.
endtask
endclass

271

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Create reusable sequences/sequence library in

UVM

Co-ordinate sequences at multiple interfaces

through Virtual Sequences and Sequencers

272

Agenda: Day 3
DAY
3

Sequence Library/Virtual Sequencer

10

More on Phasing

11

Register Abstraction Layer

12

Summary

273

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Create synchronized and un-synchronized

phase domains

Create user phases

274

UVM Phasing
build
connect
end_of_elaboration
start_of_simulation

run

reset
configure
main
shutdown

extract
check
report
final

275

Common Phases
build

Create and configure testbench structure

connect

Establish cross-component connections

end_of_elaboration

Fine-tune the testbench

start_of_simulation

Get ready for DUT to be simulated

run

Stimulate the DUT

extract

Extract data from different points of the verification

environment

check

Check for any unexpected conditions in the

verification environment

report

Report results of the test

final

Tie up loose ends

For more details please see UVM Reference Guide
276

Scheduled Run Time Task Phases

pre_reset

Setup/Wait for conditions to reset DUT

reset

Reset DUT

post_reset

Wait for DUT to be at a known state

pre_configure

Setup/Wait for conditions to configure DUT

configure

Configure the DUT

post_configure

Wait for DUT to be at a known configured state

pre_main

Setup/Wait for conditions to start testing DUT

main

Test DUT

post_main

Typically a no-op

pre_shutdown

Typically a no-op

shutdown

Wait for data in DUT to be drained

post_shutdown

Perform final checks that consume simulation time

For more details please see UVM Reference Guide

277

Phase Synchronization
n

All components executing a Run Time phase must

drop objections for that phase before any component
can move on to the next phase

component A

reset

component B

reset
configure

main

component C

reset
configure

main
main

shutdown

shutdown

Reset phase

Configure phase

Main phase

Shutdown phase
278

Phase Objection (1/3)

n

Objection typically raised at stimulus creation

l

Parent sequence

Executes only
if sequence is
the parent
sequence

class packet_sequence ...;

// other code not shown
task pre_body();
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase
starting_phase.raise_objection(this); is null if sequence
endtask
is a child
task post_body();
sequence.
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
Must check!
endtask
endclass
Objection set for main

phase
class router_env extends uvm_env;
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
// code not shown
uvm_config_db #(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(agent, "seqr.main_phase",
"default_sequence", packet_sequence::get_type());
endfunction
endclass
279

Phase Objection (2/3)

n

Objection should not be raised/dropped in component's

run or main phase
l

Impacts simulation with excessive objection count

class driver extends ...;

task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
forever begin
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
Debug with
phase.raise_objection(this);
+UVM_OBJECTION_TRACE
send(req);
run-time switch
seq_item_port.item_done();
phase.drop_objection(this);
end
class iMonitor extends ...;
endtask
virtual task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
endclass
forever begin
@(negedge [Link].frame_n[port_id]);
phase.raise_objection(this);
get_packet(tr);
phase.drop_objection(this);
end
endtask
endclass

280

Phase Objection (3/3)

What about latency of outputs?
If monitor/slave do not implement objection, doesn't the
phase terminate before the output sampling is done?
n

Objection dropping can be delayed with drain time

class packet_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(packet);

Get objection
virtual task body();
if (starting_phase != null) begin
handle
uvm_objection objection = starting_phase.get_objection();
objection.set_drain_time(this, 1us);
Set drain time
starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
end
`uvm_do(req);
if (starting_phase != null) begin
starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
end
endtask
endclass

281

Advanced Features
n

User Defined Phases/Schedules

l

Multiple Phase Domains

l
l

Can be mixed with predefined Phases/Schedules

No inter-domain synchronization by default
Full and partial synchronization

Phase Jumping
l

Forwards and Backwards

Only recommended for

(Environment) Implementers
not (Component) Developers
282

User Defined Phase

n

User can create customized phases

User phase
name

Phase name
prefix

`uvm_user_task_phase(new_cfg, driver,
my_)

Component where phase will

execute
Macro creates a new phase class called my_new_cfg_phase
driver must implement new_cfg_phase(uvm_phase
phase)
class environment extends uvm_env; // utils and constructor
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
uvm_domain env_domain = this.get_domain();
super.build_phase(phase);
drv = new(drv, this);
env_domain.add(my_new_cfg_phase::get(),
.after_phase(uvm_configure_phase::get());
endfunction
endclass
Add phase into domain

283

Phase Domains
n

Run Time Phases are organized as domains

l

The default domain name is uvm

task main_phase(uvm_phase phase);

$display(Executing in %s domain", phase.get_domain_name());

User can create customized domains

Created two user domains

class environment extends uvm_env;
driver drv0, drv1;
uvm_domain domain0=new("domain0"), domain1=new("domain1");
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
drv0 = new(drv0", this); drv1 = new(drv1, this);
endfunction
virutal function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
drv0.set_domain(domain0);
drv1.set_domain(domain1);
[Link](this.get_domain());
...
drv1s phases are synchronized with
endfunction
environment
endclass
drv0s phases are independent of all other

284

Phase Jump: Backward

n

Phases can be rolled back

Mid-simulation reset can be accomplished by

jumping back to reset phase

Environment must be designed to support jumping

l

l
l

All active components must implement reset_phase() to

return control signals to de-asserted state
All residual properties must be deleted
All residual processes must be killed

reset
configure
main

shutdown

class test_jump2reset extends test_base;

// code not shown
virtual task post_main_phase();
static int count = 0;
if (count++ < 5)
[Link](uvm_reset_phase::get());
endtask

285

Phase Jump: Forward

n

Useful for a test to skip a behavior

l

Example: skip rest of main if coverage is met

Environment must be designed to support jumping

l
l

Clears objection for phase when called

Shutdown phase must take care of draining testbench and
DUT pipelines before terminating simulation

class driver extends uvm_driver #(...);

event update; covergroup d_cov ...
virtual task run_phase(...);
forever begin
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
d_cov.sample(req); -> update;
seq_item_port.item_done();
end
virtual task main_phase(...);
endtask
forever begin
endclass
@(update);
if ($get_coverage() == 100.0)
[Link](uvm_pre_shutdown_phase::get());
end
endtask

286

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Create synchronized and un-synchronized phase

domains

Create user phases

287

Lab 6 Introduction
Implement sequence library

30 min

Implement
Sequence
library

Compile
and
Simulate

288

Agenda: Day 3
DAY
3

Sequence Library/Virtual Sequencer

10

More on Phasing

11

Register Abstraction Layer

12

Summary

289

Unit Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to:

n

Create ralf file to represent DUT registers

Use ralgen to create UVM register classes

Use UVM register in sequences

Implement adapter to correctly pass UVM

register object to drivers

Run built-in UVM register tests

290

Register & Memories

Every DUT has them

First to be verified
l
l

Reset value
Bit(s) behavior

High maintenance
l
l

Modify tests
Modify firmware model

291

Testbench without RAL

A typical test

check reset value

write value

check value

sequence
body()

device
drivers

Host Sequencer

What about

coverage?

self-checking?

randomization?

portability?

Host Driver

Host Other
Port Ports

address
data
r_w

DUT
register
Memory

HOST_ID
LOCK
REG_FILE

example
register
mapping

Memory

class host_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(host_data); ...;

virtual task body();
`uvm_do_with(req, {addr=='h100; data=='1; kind==host_data::WRITE;});
`uvm_do_with(req, {addr=='h100; kind==host_data::READ;}); ...;
endtask
Address hardcoded!
endclass
Field name unknown!
Status of execution
292
unknown!

Register Abstraction Layer (RAL)

n

Abstracts reading/writing to
configuration fields and
memories
Supports both front door
and back door access

Mirrors register data

Built-in functional coverage

Hierarchical model for ease of

reuse

Pre-defined tests exercise

registers and memories

Simulation
User
tests

Pre-defined
tests

Coverage Model

uvm_reg

Spec
backdoor

frontdoor

RTL

293

Testbench with RAL:

Sequencer
Unchanged
New sequence uses
register models
abstraction to read
and write DUT fields

sequence
body()

Register model
Adapter

Register model with

Built-in:

coverage

self-checking

randomization

portable structure

device
drivers

Driver Unchanged
Host Other
Port Ports

address
data
r_w

DUT
register
Memory

HOST_ID
LOCK
REG_FILE
Memory

class host_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(host_data); ...;

virtual task body(); uvm_status_e status; uvm_reg_data_t data;
regmodel.HOST_ID.read(status, data, UVM_FRONTDOOR, this);
[Link](status, 1, UVM_FRONTDOOR), this);
endtask
Access can be front
Access via abstracted field
endclass
door or back door
name
Status of execution returned

294

Implement RAL in Six Steps

n

Step 1: Create & verify frontdoor BFM without RAL

Step 2: Describe register fields in ralf file

Step 3: Use ralgen to create RAL classes

Step 4: Create RAL adapter

Step 5: Instantiate RAL model in environment

Step 6: Write and run RAL test sequence

Optional: Run built-in test

Pre-defined
tests

Spec

Coverage Model

RAL
Frontdoor
access

RAL
BFM

Backdoor
access

RTL DUT

295

Example Specification
HOST_ID Register

Address Map

sequence

Host Sequencer

body()

HOST_ID

0x0000

Field

CHIP_ID

REV_ID

PORT_LOCK

0x0100

Bits

15-8

7-0

REG_FILE

0x1000-0x10FF

Mode

ro

ro

RAM

0x4000-0x4FFF

Reset

0x5A

0x03

Mode

run_phase

Host Driver

ro

Read Only

rw

Read/Write

w1c

Write 1 to Clear

device
drivers

Host Other
Port Ports

address
data
r_w

DUT
register
Memory

HOST_ID
LOCK
REG_FILE
RAM

PORT_LOCK Register
Field
LOCK
Bits
15-0
Mode
w1c
Reset
0xff

Field
Bits
Mode
Reset

Bits
Mode

Register File
REG_FILE[256]
15-0
rw
0x00
RAM (4K)
15-0
rw

296

Create Host Transaction and Component

sequence

Host Sequencer

body()

run_phase

Host Driver

device
drivers

Host Other
Port Ports

address
data
r_w

DUT
register
Memory

class host_data extends uvm_sequence_item;

// constructor and utils macro not shown
typedef enum int unsigned {
READ,
WRITE
} kind_e;
rand kind_e kind;
rand bit[15:0] addr, data;
endclass: host_data
class host_driver extends uvm_driver
#(host_data);
// constructor and utils macro not shown
task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
forever begin
seq_item_port.get_next_item(req);
data_rw(req); // call device driver
seq_item_port.item_done();
end
endtask
// device drivers not shown;
endclass: host_driver

297

Create Host BFM Sequence

n

sequencer

Implement host sequence

sequence
body()

class host_bfm_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(host_data);

// utils macro and constructor not shown
task body();
if (starting_phase != null) starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
`uvm_do_with(req, {addr==h000; kind==host_data::READ;});
`uvm_do_with(req, {addr==h100; data==1; kind==host_data::WRITE;});
`uvm_do_with(req, {addr==h100; kind==host_data::READ;});
if (starting_phase != null) starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
endtask
endclass

298

Verify Frontdoor Host BFM is Working

class host_env extends uvm_env;
typedef uvm_sequencer #(host_data) host_sequencer;
host_driver
drv;
host_sequencer
seqr;
// constructor and utils macro not shown
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
// super.build_phase and construction of components not shown
uvm_config_db#(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this,"seqr.configure_phase",
"default_sequence", host_bfm_sequence::type_id::get());
endfunction
// connect_phase not shown
endclass
class test_base extends uvm_test;
host_env h_env;
// constructor and utils macro not shown
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
// super.build_phase and construction of components not shown
uvm_config_db#(virtual host_io)::set(this, "h_env.*", "host_io",
router_test_top.host);
endfunction
endclass

299

Step 2: Create .ralf File Based on Spec

register HOST_ID {
field REV_ID {
bits
8;
access ro;
reset h03;
}
field CHIP_ID {
bits
8;
access ro;
reset h5A;
}}
register PORT_LOCK {
field LOCK {
bits 16;
access w1c;
reset hffff;
}}

regfile REG_FILE {
register HOST_REG {
field USER_REG {
bits 16;
access rw;
reset h0000;
}}}
memory RAM {
size
4k;
bits
16;
access rw;
}

Field

CHIP_ID

REV_ID

Bits

15-8

7-0

Mode

ro

ro

Reset

0x5A

0x03

PORT_LOCK Register
Field
LOCK
Bits
15-0
Mode
w1c
Reset
0xff

Field
Bits
Mode
Reset

register
field

HOST_ID Register

field

regfile

Bits
Mode

Register File
REG_FILE[256]
15-0
rw
0x00
RAM (4K)
15-0
rw

register
register
register
memory

300

Step 2: Create .ralf File Based on Spec

Create register model to be used at block
level
block host_regmodel {
bytes 2;
register HOST_ID
register PORT_LOCK
regfile REG_FILE[256]
memory RAM
}

logic name in
DUT
(host_id)
(lock)
(host_reg[%d])
(ram)

@h0000;
@h0100;
@h1000;
@h4000;

module instance name in

DUT
system dut_regmodel {
bytes 2;
block host_regmodel=HOST0 (blk0) @'h0000;
block host_regmodel=HOST1 (blk1) @'h8000;
}
Optional:
Create register model to be used at system
level

Address Map
HOST_ID
PORT_LOCK
REG_FILE
RAM

0x0000
0x0100
0x1000-0x10FF
0x4000-0x4FFF

system
block
block
register
register
field
field
field
field

memory
memory

register
register
regfile
register
field
field
register
field
register
register

301

RAL File Field Syntax

n

Field
l

Contains Bits, Access, Reset Value, Constraints

field field_name {
[bits n;]
[access rw|ro|wo|w1|w0c|w1c|rc|...;]
[reset value;]
[<constraint name { <expressions> }>]
[enum { <name[=val],> }]
system
}

field REV_ID {
bits
8;
access ro;
reset h03;
}

block
block
register
register
field
field
field
field

memory
memory

register
register
regfile
register
field
field
register
field
register
register

302

RAL: Field Properties

RAL field can have any of the following specifications

bits

Number of bits in the field

access

See next slide

reset

Specify the hard reset value for the field

constraint

Constraint to be used when randomizing field

enum

Define symbolic name for field values

303

RAL: Field Access Types

RW

read-write

RO

read-only

WO

write-only; read error

W1

write-once

WO1

write-once; read error

W0C/S/T

write a 0 to bitwise-clear/set/toggle matching bits

W1C/S/T

write a 1 to bitwise-clear/set/toggle matching bits

RC/S

read clear /set all bits

WC/S

write clear /set all bits

WOC/S

write-only clear/set matching bits; read error

WRC/S

read clear/set all bits

WSRC [WCRS]

write sets all bits; read clears all bits [inverse]

W1SRC [W1CRS]

write one set matching bits; read clears all bits [inverse]

W0SRC [W0CRS]

write zero set matching bits; read clears all bits [inverse]
304

RAL File Register Syntax

n

Register
l

Contains fields

register reg_name {
[bytes n;]
[left_to_right;]
[<field name[=rename] [[n]] [@bit_offset[+incr]];>]
[<field name[[n]] [(hdl_path)] [@bit_offset] {<properties>}>]
[<constraint name {<expression>}>]
[shared [(hdl_path)];]
system
[doc {<text>}]
}
block

register HOST_ID {
field REV_ID;
field CHIP_ID { ... }
}

block
register
register
field
field
field
field

memory
memory

register
register
regfile
register
field
field
register
field
register
register

305

RAL: Register Properties

RAL registers can have any of the following specifications
bytes

Number of bytes in the register

left_to_right

If specified, fields are concatenated starting from

the most significant side of the register but justified
to the least-significant side

[n]

Array of fields

bit_offset

Bit offset from the least-significant bit

incr

Array offset bit increment

hdl_path

Specify the module instance containing the register

(backdoor access)

constraint

Constraint to be used when randomizing register

shared

All blocks instancing this register share the space

306

RAL File Register FILE Syntax

n

Register File
l

Contains register(s)

regfile regfile_name {
[<register name[=rename][[n]][(hdl_path)][@offset];>]
[<register name[[n]] [(hdl_path)] [@offset]
{<property>}]
[<constraint name {<expression>}>]
[shared [(hdl_path)];]
system
[doc {<text>}]
}
block
block
regfile REG_FILE {
register
memory
register
memory
register HOST_REG {
field
field
field
field
field USER_REG {
bits 16;
register
register
regfile
register
access rw;
field
field
register
reset h00;
field
register
register
}}}
307

RAL: Register File Properties

RAL register file can have any of the following specifications

[n]

Array of registers

hdl_path

Specify the module instance containing the register

(backdoor access)

offset

Address offset within the register file

shared

All blocks instancing this register share the space

308

RAL File Memory Syntax

n

Memory
l

Leaf level component

memory mem_name {
size m[k|M|G];
bits n;
[access rw|ro;]
[initial x|0|1|addr|literal[++|--];]
[shared [(hdl_path)];]
system
[doc {<text>}]
block
}
block
memory RAM {
size
4k;
bits
16;
access rw;
}

register
register
field
field
field
field

memory
memory

register
register
regfile
register
field
field
register
field
register
register

309

RAL: Memory Properties

RAL memories can have any of the following specifications

size

Number of consecutive addresses

bits

Number of bits in each address location

access

Allowed access type

noise

Non destructive access type

initial

Initial content of the memory

310

RAL File Block Syntax

n

Blocks
l
l
l

Instantiated in system
The smallest functional unit that can be verified is a block
Can have domains specified for corresponding physical
interfaces (minimum of two if specified)
block blk_name {
<proptery>
}
block blk_name {
domain name {
<property>
}
<domain name {
<property>
}
}

system
block
block
register
register
field
field
field
field

memory
memory

register
register
regfile
register
field
field
register
field
register
register

311

RAL File Block Syntax

n

Blocks
l

Contains register or memory elements

block blk_name {
bytes n;
[endian no|little|big|fifo_ls|fifo_ms;]
[<register name[=rename] [[n]][(hdl_path)] [@offset];>]
[<register name[[n]][(hdl_path)][@offset] {<property>}]
[<regfile name[=rename] [[n]] [(hdl_path)] [@offset] [+incr];>]
[<regfile name[[n]][(hdl_path)][@offset] [+incr] {<property>}]
[<memory name[=rename] [(hdl_path)] [@offset];>]
[<memory name [(hdl_path)] [@offset] {<property>}>]
[<constraint name {<expression>}>]
[doc {<text>}] block host_regmodel {
}
bytes 2;
register HOST_ID
(host_id)
@h0000;
register PORT_LOCK
(lock)
@h0100;
register HOST_REG[256] (host_reg[%d])
Must add
@h1000;
312
index

RAL: Block Properties

RAL block can have any of the following specifications

bytes

Number of bytes concurrently addressed

endian

Specifies hwo wide registers are mapped

313

RAL File System Syntax

n

Top Level or subsystem

l

Can have domains specified for corresponding physical

interfaces (minimum of two if specified)
system sys_name {
<proptery>
}
system

system sys_name {
domain name {
<property>
}
<domain name {
<property>
}
}

block
block
register
register
field
field
field
field

memory
memory

register
register
regfile
register
field
field
register
field
register
register

314

RAL File System Syntax

n

Top Level or subsystem

l

Contains other systems or blocks

system sys_name {
bytes n;
[endian no|little|big|fifo_ls|fifo_ms;]
[<block name[[.domain]=rename][[n]][(hdl_path)]@offset[+incr];>]
[<block name[[n]] [(hdl_path)] @offset [+incr] {<property>}>]
[<system name[[.domain]=rename][[n]][(hdl_path)]@offset[+incr];>]
[<system name[[n]][(hdl_path)] @offset [+incr] {<property>}]
[<constraint name {<expression>}>]
[doc {<text>}]
}
system dut_regmodel {
bytes 2;
block host_regmodel=HOST0 @'h0000;
block host_regmodel=HOST1 @'h8000;
}
315

Step 3: Use ralgen to Create RAL Model

ralgen uvm t dut_regmodel [Link]

// [Link]
register HOST_ID {
field REV_ID {}
field CHIP_ID {}
}
register PORT_LOCK {
field LOCK {}
}
register HOST_REG {
field USER_REG {}
}
memory RAM {}
block
host_regmodel {}
[Link]
system dut_regmodel {}

// ral_dut_regmodel.sv
class ral_reg_HOST_ID extends uvm_reg;
UVM
uvm_reg_field REV_ID;
RAL
uvm_reg_field CHIP_ID;
Classes
...
endclass : ral_reg_HOST_ID
class ral_reg_PORT_LOCK extends uvm_reg;
class ral_reg_HOST_REG extends uvm_reg;
class ral_mem_RAM extends uvm_mem;
class ral_block_host_regmodel extends uvm_reg_block;
rand ral_reg_HOST_ID
HOST_ID;
rand ral_reg_PORT_LOCK PORT_LOCK;
rand ral_reg_HOST_REG HOST_REG[256];
rand ral_mem_RAM
RAM;
...
endclass : ral_block_host_regmodel
class ral_sys_dut_regmodel extends uvm_reg_block;
rand ral_block_host_regmodel HOST0;
rand ral_block_host_regmodel HOST1;
...
endclass : ral_sys_dut_regmodel

316

UVM Sequence Using RAL

class host_bfm_sequence extends uvm_sequence#(host_data);
// utils macro and constructor
virtual task body();
if (starting_phase != null) starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
`uvm_do_with(req, {addr==h000; kind==host_data::READ;});
`uvm_do_with(req, {addr==h100; data==1; kind==host_data::WRITE;});
if (starting_phase != null) starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
endtask
endclass

Becomes

class host_ral_sequence extends uvm_reg_sequence;

ral_sys_dut_regmodel regmodel;
// utils macro and constructor
virtual task body();
if (starting_phase != null) starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
uvm_status_e
status;
uvm_reg_data_t data;
regmodel.HOST0.HOST_ID.read(status, data, UVM_FRONTDOOR,, this);
[Link](status, 1, UVM_FRONTDOOR,, this);
if (starting_phase != null) starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
endtask
endclass

317

Step 4: Create RAL Adapter

n

Environment needs a adapter to convert RAL

transactions to bus transactions

Sequencer
Unchanged

Adapter is required to
use existing test
structure
sequence
body()

Register model
Adapter

Ralgen
generated
classes

device
drivers

Driver Unchanged
Host Other
Port Ports

address
data
r_w

DUT
register
Memory

HOST_ID
LOCK
REG_FILE
Memory

318

RAL Adapter
class reg2host_adapter extends uvm_reg_adapter;
virtual function uvm_sequence_item reg2bus(const ref uvm_reg_bus_op rw);
host_data tr;
tr = host_data::type_id::create("tr");
[Link] = ([Link] == UVM_READ) ? host_data::READ : host_data::WRITE;
[Link] = [Link];
[Link] = [Link];
return tr;
endfunction
virtual function void bus2reg(uvm_sequence_item bus_item,
ref uvm_reg_bus_op rw);
host_data tr;
if (!$cast(tr, bus_item))
`uvm_fatal("NOT_HOST_REG_TYPE", "bus_item is not correct type");
[Link] = ([Link] == host_data::READ) ? UVM_READ : UVM_WRITE;
[Link] = [Link];
[Link] = [Link];
sequence
[Link] = UVM_IS_OK;
body()
Register model
endfunction
endclass
reg2bus
Adapter

bus2reg

319

Step 5: Instantiate RAL model in environment

class host_env extends uvm_env;

host_agent
h_agent;
ral_sys_dut_regmodel regmodel;
string
hdl_path;
// utils macro and constructor not shown
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
// super.build_phase and component construction not shown
if (!uvm_config_db #(string)::get(this, "", "hdl_path", hdl_path))
`uvm_warning("HOSTCFG", "HDL path is not set!");
if (regmodel == null) begin
regmodel = ral_sys_dut_regmodel::type_id::create("regmodel", this);
[Link]();
regmodel.set_hdl_path_root(hdl_path);
end
endfunction
// Continued on next slide

320

Connect RAL in Environment

virtual function void connect_phase(uvm_phase phase);
reg2host_adapter reg2host;
reg2host = reg2host_adapter::type_id::create("reg2host", this);
drv.seq_item_port.connect(seqr.seq_item_export);
regmodel.default_map.set_sequencer(h_agent.seqr, reg2host);
endfunction
endclass

sequence
body()

Register model
Adapter

device
drivers

321

Step 6: RAL Test

class test_base extends uvm_test;

host_env
h_env;
// utils macro, constructor and other environments not shown
virtual function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
// super.build_phase and component construction not shown
uvm_config_db#(string)::set(this, "h_env", "hdl_path",
"router_test_top.dut");
endfunction
virtual task configure_phase(uvm_phase phase);
host_ral_sequence host_seq;
super.configure_phase(phase);
host_seq = host_ral_sequence::type_id::create("host_seq");
host_seq.regmodel = h_env.regmodel;
host_seq.start(null);
endtask
endclass

322

Built-in Test Implementation

n

Instantiate built-in test to do self-tests

class hw_reset_test extends test_base;

reset_sequence
reset_seq;
Built-in test
uvm_reg_hw_reset_seq reset_test;
instance
// utils macro and constructor left off
virtual task run_phase(uvm_phase phase);
phase.raise_objection(this, "Starting register tests");
// user reset sequence is required for uvm_reg_hw_reset_seq test
reset_seq = reset_sequence::type_id::create("reset_seq", this);
env.reset_seqr.execute_item(reset_seq);

Create and run

test

reset_test = uvm_reg_hw_reset_seq::type_id::create("reset_test", this);

reset_test.model = [Link];
reset_test.model.set_auto_predict(1);
reset_test.start(null);
phase.drop_objection(this, "Done with register tests");
endtask
endclass
simv +UVM_TESTNAME=hw_reset_test

323

Unit Objectives Review

Having completed this unit, you should be able to:
n

Create ralf file to represent DUT registers

Use ralgen to create UVM register classes

Use UVM register in sequences

Implement adapter to correctly pass UVM register

object to drivers

Run built-in UVM register tests

324

Appendix

UVM RAL Register Modes

UVM RAL Built-In Tests
UVM RAL Coverage
UVM RAL Shared Registers
325

UVM RAL Register Modes

326

UVM RAL Register Modes

n

Frontdoor read/write

Mirror
Desired

Backdoor read/write

Mirror set/get/update

reg

...

reg
Mirrored
reg

...

reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

327

Frontdoor Write
n

[Link](.value(data), .path(UVM_FRONTDOOR));
l
l
l
l

Sequence creates WRITE transaction with value

Sequencer passes transaction to driver via TLM port
Driver calls device drivers to set value
Mirror
Desired
Mirror content is updated with value
reg
if auto predict is set in map

regmodel.default_map.set_auto_predict(1);

...
reg

Mirrored
reg

...
reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

328

Frontdoor Read
n

[Link](.value(data), .path(UVM_FRONTDOOR));
l
l
l
l

Sequence creates READ transaction with value

Sequencer passes transaction to driver via TLM port
Driver calls device drivers to read value
Mirror
Desired
Mirror content is updated with value
reg
if auto predict is set in map

regmodel.default_map.set_auto_predict(1);

...

reg
Mirrored
reg

...

reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

329

Backdoor Write
n

[Link](.value(data) , .path(UVM_BACKDOOR));
l
l

Write method set value in DUT via XMR

Mirror content is updated with value
if auto predict is set in map

Mirror
Desired

regmodel.default_map.set_auto_predict(1);

reg

...

reg
Mirrored
reg

...

reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

330

Backdoor Read
n

[Link](.value(data) , .path(UVM_BACKDOOR));
l
l

Read method get value from DUT via XMR

Mirror content is updated with value
if auto predict is set in map

regmodel.default_map.set_auto_predict(1);

Mirror
Desired
reg

...

reg
Mirrored
reg

...

reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

331

Mirror Read
n

data = [Link]();
l

Get value from desired mirror

Mirror
Desired
reg

...
reg
Mirrored
reg

...
reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

332

Mirror Write
n

[Link](.value(data));
l

Set method set value in desired mirror

Mirror
Desired
reg

...
reg
Mirrored
reg

...
reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

333

Mirror Value Creation

n

[Link]();
l

Populate desired mirror with random value

Mirror
Desired
reg

...
reg
Mirrored
reg

...
reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

334

Mirrored & DUT Value Update

n

[Link]();
l

Update DUT and mirrored values with desired mirror

value if mirrored value is different from desired value
Mirror
Desired
reg

...
reg
Mirrored
reg

...
reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

335

Mirrored & Desired Value Update

n

[Link]();
l

Update mirrored and desired values with DUT register

content
Mirror
Desired
reg

...
reg
Mirrored
reg

...
reg

sequencer

driver

DUT
reg

run

sequence
body()

run

device
drivers

...
reg

336

UVM RAL Built-In Tests

337

UVM RAL Test Sequences

n

Some of these test sequences depend on mirror to

be updated when backdoor is used to access DUT
registers

You should set auto predict in test

regmodel.default_map.set_auto_predict(1);
Sequence Name

Description

uvm_reg_hw_reset_seq

Test the hard reset values of register

uvm_reg_bit_bash_seq

Bit bash all bits of registers

uvm_reg_access_seq

Verify accessibility of all registers

uvm_mem_walk_seq

Verify memory with walking ones algorithm

uvm_mem_access_seq

Verify access by using front and back door

uvm_reg_mem_built_in_seq

Run all reg and memory tests

uvm_reg_mem_hdl_paths_seq

Verify hdl_path for reg and memory

uvm_reg_mem_shared_access_seq Verify accessibility of shared reg and memory

338

Agenda: Day 3
DAY
3

Sequence Library/Virtual Sequencer

10

More on Phasing

11

Register Abstraction Layer

12

Summary

339

Key Elements of UVM

n

Methodology

Scalable architecture

Standardized component communication

Customizable component phase execution

Flexible components configuration

Reusable register abstraction

340

UVM Methodology Guiding Principles

n

Top-down implementation methodology

l

Maximize design quality

l
l
l

Emphasizes Coverage Driven Verification

More testcases
More checks
Less code

Constrainable
Random Generation

Approaches
l

Reuse
Across tests
u Across blocks
u Across systems
u Across projects
u

l
l

Add
constraints

Directed
Testcase
Minimal Code
Modifications

Many runs,
different seeds

Functional
Coverage
Identify
holes

One verification environment, many tests

Minimize test-specific code
341

Scalable Architecture
n

Interface based agent enables block to system reuse

Top Level Harness

Test

Environment
Scoreboard
Master Agent

Passive
A
g
e
n
t

Sequencer

Driver

Bus
Monitor

DUTA

Slave Agent

Coverage

Sequencer

Scoreboard

Bus
Monitor

Bus
Monitor

Driver

DUTB
342

Standardized Component Communication

n
n

TLM 1.0 built into the base class

TLM 2.0 for cross language support
Top Level Harness
test
env
Scoreboard/
coverage
master agent

slave agent
sequencer

sequencer

default_sequence

default_sequence

driver

monitor

monitor

driver

DUTA
343

Customizable Component Phase Execution

n

Component phases are synchronized

l
l

Ensures correctly organized configuration and execution

Can be customized
component A

component B

component C

reset

reset

reset

main

time

configure

configure

main
main

shutdown

shutdown
344

Flexible Components Configuration (1/3)

n

uvm_config_db#(_type)::get(...)

class driver extends ; // simplified code

virtual router_io sigs;
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
if (!uvm_config_db#(virtual router_io)::get(this, "",
"router_io", sigs))
`uvm_fatal("CFGERR", "Driver DUT interface not set");
endfunction
endclass

uvm_config_db#(_type)::set(...)

class test_base extends ; // simplified code

function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
uvm_config_db#(virtual router_io)::set(this, "env.*",
"router_io", router_test_top.sigs);
endfunction
endclass

345

Flexible Components Configuration (2/3)

n

Sequence execution phase can be specified

class reset_sequence extends uvm_sequence; // simplified code

task body();
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.raise_objection(this);
reset_dut();
if (starting_phase != null)
starting_phase.drop_objection(this);
endtask
endclass

uvm_config_db#(_type)::set(...) executes
sequence in chosen phase

class router_env extends uvm_env; // simplified code

function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
uvm_config_db#(uvm_object_wrapper)::set(this, "seqr.reset_phase",
"default_sequence", reset_sequence::type_id::get());
endfunction
endclass

346

Flexible Components Configuration (3/3)

class test_new extends test_base; ...
`uvm_component_utils(test_new)
Replace
function void build_phase(uvm_phase);
component
super.build_phase(phase);
set_inst_override("[Link]", "component", "new_comp");
endfunction
endclass
class environment extends uvm_env;
...
function void build_phase(uvm_phase phase);
super.build_phase(phase);
comp = component::type_id::create("comp", this);
endfunction
use create() to build
endclass

simv
uvm_top

run_test()
uvm_test_top
uvm_test_top

component
class new_comp extends component;
`uvm_component_utils(new_comp)
function new(string name, uvm_component parent);
virtual task component_task();
// modified component functionality
endtask
Modify
endclass
operation

env
env
comp
new_comp
comp

347

Standardized Register Abstraction

sequence

Physical addresses
are abstracted away

body()

Register model
Translator

Sequences does not

need modification
throughout block to
system integration

device
drivers

Host Other
Port Ports

address
data
r_w

DUT
register
Memory

HOST_ID
LOCK
REG_FILE
Memory

class host_ral_sequence extends uvm_reg_sequence;

virtual task body(); ...
regmodel.HOST0.HOST_ID.read(status, data, UVM_FRONTDOOR,, this);
[Link](status, 1, UVM_FRONTDOOR,, this);
endtask
endclass

348

Getting Help
n

UVM class reference guide:

l

Code examples:
l

vcs_support@[Link]

SNUG (Synopsys Users Group):

l

[Link]

VCS support:
l

$VCS_HOME/doc/examples/uvm_1.0

Solvnet:
l

$VCS_HOME/doc/UserGuide/pdf/UVM_Class_Reference_Manual_1.[Link]

[Link]

Accellera web site:

l
l

[Link]
Check for source code
349

Lab 7 Introduction
Implement RAL

60 min

Implement
register sequence
without RAL
Compile and
Simulate

Create RAL
representation

Create register
sequence with RAL

Compile and
Simulate

350

Thats all Folks!

351

352