System level verification of large scale computer

A set of system-level verification tools has been developed, and a design methodology refined, for the development of the M-880, Hitachi´s large-scale general-purpose computer. To supplement the general function test developed over the years for its predecessors, implementation-dependent tests have been strengthened by using a test matrix generator. A frame-based, interactive system has been developed to help logic designers write ad hoc miniprograms. As a result, 99% of the design errors have been detected before the start of packaging design. A special `diagnose´ instruction, coupled with a performance counter has detected performance problems at an early stage of design