Date: 26/06/2012

Software from Synopsys simulates Aurix MCU chip from Infineon

Synopsys' Virtualizer tool set has helped Infineon to deploy virtual prototypes of their AURIX microcontroller-based systems allowing embedded systems developers to develop embedded system software without the need of physical MCU chip/IC. The AURIX virtual prototype is provided by Infineon as part of the suite of development tools for developing real-time embedded software.

"Virtual prototypes are an important tool for addressing the increasing software complexity in automotive electronic systems, and partnering with Synopsys ensures that Infineon and our customers will have access to market-leading virtual prototyping technology," said Axel Hahn, senior director of the Microcontroller Powertrain Application Line at Infineon Technologies AG. "Using Synopsys' Virtualizer to create the AURIX virtual prototypes, we were not only able to accelerate our internal software development, but also provide an early target for our customers to begin their system development activities and provide early feedback on our new architecture. With access to virtual prototypes as part of the AURIX development tool suite, our customers can now rapidly integrate this technology into their current software development and testing processes."

The new Infineon AURIX family features a multicore architecture with support for up to three independent 32-bit TriCore processor cores, providing a scalable set of performance options. The high performance and embedded safety and security features of the AURIX microcontrollers enable them to be used for a wide range of software-rich automotive applications such as engine and transmission control, braking systems, power steering systems, chassis domain control, airbags and advanced driver assistance systems.

AURIX virtual prototypes can also be used to create virtual Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testbenches. Virtual HIL simulation enables system validation teams to increase the scope of their testing through fault injection and extended code coverage.

"Our collaboration with Infineon enables automotive manufacturers and their Tier 1 suppliers to enhance their development, integration and validation activities associated with the growing software content in modern cars," said John Koeter, vice president of marketing for IP and systems at Synopsys. "Virtual prototypes based on Synopsys' Virtualizer solution offer unique visibility into how the software behaves within the ECU, delivering unparalleled debug efficiency to AURIX MCU users."

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