Validation of MCU chipsets designed for automobile industry
Business Problem
A leading semiconductor manufacturer faced a critical challenge in validating the MCU chipsets designed for automobile entertainment and control. The client needed a comprehensive solution to verify the performance of multiple derivatives of their MCU chipset. Expertise in embedded technology and embedded MCU system specifications was essential for the validation process, which also involved creating a user-friendly GUI for visualizing status, alarms and deviations, including temperature and electrical variations.
Business Analysis
The client wanted to validate their MCU chipsets to ensure they comply with specified technical specifications. PureSoftware, recognized as a domain and technology expert, collaborated with the client to address this challenge. The project required in-depth evaluation of various derivatives of the MCU chipset The validation process involved I3C based testing on sensors connected over a commonly available interface like Arduino shield connector, addressing voltage translation, alert indication, adjustable LDO, and USB (High Speed) port connectivity.
Additionally, as per the client’s requirements PureSoftware developed a GUI front-end from scratch, incorporating a USB HID class driver for the High-Speed port. The GUI was designed to support I2C and I3C based control, including functionalities such as address change/display, dynamic address assignment, read/write functions, and temperature reading. It also included features to detect which temperature part is utilized on the board.
PureSoftware Solution
PureSoftware’s approach involved a diligent evaluation of five derivatives of the MCU Chipset. This encompassed conducting I3C based testing on sensors interconnected via the Arduino shield connector, addressing critical aspects such as voltage translation, alert indication, and adjustable LDO. In terms of connectivity and testing, PureSoftware ensured the seamless integration of the MCU through the USB (High Speed) port, accompanied by the development and implementation of a USB HID class driver for the High-Speed port. The solution further extended to the creation of an intuitive GUI from the ground up. This user-friendly interface not only supported I2C and I3C based control functionalities but also featured address change/display, dynamic address assignment, read/write functions, and temperature reading. Importantly, the GUI possessed the capability to detect the specific temperature part utilized on the board, enhancing the overall monitoring and control capabilities.
Results
The tested MCU chipsets were fully functional, confirming that their electrical and functional parameters aligned with the expected datasheet provided by the vendor.
A visually intuitive GUI was developed, enabling easy tracking of all parts of the chipset.
The GUI facilitated effective monitoring and control of I2C and I3C based functionalities, enhancing the overall validation status and stability.
