Architecture Exploration of 3D Video Recorder Using Virtual Platform Models

Virtual platform modeling is a new method for developing complex software intensive systems such as System on Chips, Networks on Chips and embedded devices. Hardware prototyping is not needed in the early design phase, as similar functionality can be achieved quicker and more flexibly with virtual platform models. In this paper the virtual platform model is used for hardware architecture exploration. We evaluated the design method of a 3D video recorder and measured the time and effort needed to build and run complete system simulations using real software. The results suggest that virtual platform modeling is a viable option for architecture exploration, but only if its limitations due to abstracted models are understood. The design process of a virtual platform without prior experience of the tools was measured to be 16 weeks for two designers. Afterwards, changes to the hardware platform could be made in less than 2 weeks depending on how challenging they are.