If you were to debug software running on a computer, you could compile and debug on that computer. The system would have enough resources to run the program and support debugging it at the same time. In fact, the hardware wouldnt know you were debugging an application, as it is all done in software. Embedded systems arent like that. In addition to a cross compiler, youll need a cross debugger. The debugger sits on your computer and communicates with the target processor through special processor interface as illustrated in figure.
computer and target processor
computer and target processor
The interface is dedicated to letting someone else eavesdrop on the
processor as it works. This interface is often called JTAG whether it actually implements that widespread standard or not. Debugging: Debugging is a methodical process of finding and reducing the number of bugs, or defect in a program .
Example of Target Hardware for PIC
microcontrollers
Target Hardware for PIC
microcontrollers To develop hardware for a projects and innovation products, a hardware simulator is likely to be extremely used. Before hard wiring and soldering a circuit, if it is possible to test the circuit and confirm that it works as per expectations a lot effort can be saved. There are some such simulators is common use, where the hardware of important MCUs are available into which the required program and be written and tested for the correctness of the hardware connections and the associated software. PROTEUS VSM: one such tool commonly used in the academic environment is the proteus VSM which is a design suite which offer the idea of virtual modeling of MCU-based circuitry with important external peripherals like LEDs,LCDs.etc. With such a tool, testing of the circuit can be started as soon as the schematic is ready, and once the software is also ready, the complete setup can be tested and verified. Once this is conformed to be working correctly,PCB design can be started.
cross compiler
Cross compiler
A compiler converts source code(C/C++ language) into machine
instruction(i.e Hex code). MPLAB C Compiler is a cross-complier that run on a PC and produces code that can be executed by the microchip PIC18XXXX family of microcontroller. Like an assembler, the MPLAB C complier translates humanunderstandable statements into ones and zeros for the microcontroller to execute. Unlike an assembler ,the complier does not do a one-to-one translation of machine mnemonics into machine code. MPLAB C takes standard C statements, such as if(x==y) and temp=0x27,and converts them into PIC18XXXX machine code.
Standard Communication Hardware
Standard Communication Hardware
The standard communication is the main interface to target processor. It contain the connections to the high voltage(VPP),VDD sense lines, and clock and data connections required for programming and connecting with the target devices. The VPP high voltage line can produce a variable voltage that can swing from 1.8 to 14 volts to satisfy the voltage requirements for the specific emulation processor.
Modular cable and connector
Modular cable and connector
For standard communications, a modulator cable connects the debugger and the target application. The specifications for this cable and its connectors .