VAB User Manual

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Visual Application Builder

VAB

For the TI DSK

Starters Guide

Copyright, 1991-2000

All rights reserved worldwide


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6RIWZDUH/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQWHyperception, Incorporated and its subsidiaries, and any applicable licensers grant to you a non-exclusive,nontransferable license to use the software program and related documentation in this package (collectivelyreferred to as the "Program") on a single-user computer. Any attempted sub-license, assignment or othertransfer of the Program or the rights or obligations of this Agreement without the prior written consent of Hyperception shall be void. Failure to comply with these terms will result in termination of this license. Use of the Program on a multiple-user system requires payment of additional fees.

A single-user system is defined as having input/output ports for no more than one log-in terminal (including thesystem console, if any); A single user system can have only a single operator using the system at any one time.

Source Code Files may be modified and/or merged into another program for your use on a single machine. Anypart of the Source Code merged into another program will continue to be subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

The program and documentation are copyrighted. You may make two (2) copies of the program for backup andarchival purposes. Unauthorized copying, or reverse compiling and disassembling of the programs in objectformat are prohibited. Title to the program is not transferred to you by this license.

3URJUDP/LPLWDWLRQVHyperception does not warrant that the Program will be free from error or will meet your specific requirements.You assume complete responsibility for decisions made or actions taken based on information obtained usingthe Program. Any statements made concerning the utility of the Program are not to be construed as expressed orimplied warranties.

Hyperception makes no warranty or condition, either express or implied, including but not limited to, anyimplied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, regarding the program and makes theprogram available solely on an "as is" basis.

Due to the ongoing development nature of the software, all specifications are subject to change at any timewithout notice.

/LPLWHG:DUUDQW\RQ0HGLDDQG'DPDJHV'LVFODLPHU The media (not the Program) is warranted to the original purchaser against defects in material andworkmanship for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of original purchase.

Defective media under warranty will be replaced when it is returned postage-paid with a copy of the purchasereceipt to Hyperception located in Dallas, Texas. The replacement media is warranted for ninety (90) days fromdate of replacement. Other than the postage requirement (when allowed by law), no charge will be made for thereplacement. This paragraph expresses Hyperception's sole liability and your exclusive remedy.

Neither Hyperception nor any applicable licenser shall be responsible for incidental or consequential damages.This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state tostate. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitations of incidental or consequential damages orlimitations on how long an implied warranty lasts so the above limitations or exclusion may not apply to you.

([SRUW&RQWUROThe re-export of United States origin software is subject to United States laws under theExport-Administration Act of 1969 as amended. Any further sale of the program shall be inaccordance with United States Department of Commerce Administration regulation.Compliance with such regulation is your responsibility and not the responsibility of Hyperception.


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&RS\ULJKWDQG7UDGHPDUN1RWLFHVCopyright1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 by Hyperception. All rightsreserved worldwide. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or illustrative content, in anymanner, is prohibited. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information containedherein. While the utmost care and every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book,Hyperception assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages

resulting from the use of the information contained herein.

Hyperception is a trademark and VAB is a trademark of Hyperception, Inc.

Intel is a trademark of Intel Corporation.

Microsoft and MS-DOS are registered trademarks and Windows and Windows NT are registeredtrademarks of Microsoft, Inc.

Texas Instruments is a registered trademark of Texas Instruments, Inc.


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5XQQLQJ9$%IRUWKH)LUVW7LPHAfter you have completed the VAB installation you can select the VAB icon from eitherthe newly installed HyperLAB Taskbar located at the top of your computer screen ordirectly from the Start Menu Hyperception folder. HyperLAB is a taskbar that appears onyour Windows desktop after installation of the VAB software. It contains shortcut

buttons to various tools/programs included with the VAB application. This taskbar willappear each time Windows is started.

When you run the VAB software for the first time the program will attempt to detect theDSK hardware. If the VAB cannot locate the DSK at the default location of LPT1, or if the DSK is not connected, or a problem is encountered, then VAB will issue a warningmessage. Next, VAB will perform a one-time build of its block components (this willoccur regardless of whether or not VAB has located the DSK).

VAB initially will expect the DSK to be connected to LPT1. If you do receive a warningmessage and the VAB software cannot locate the DSK, then you should take steps toverify VABs LPT selection options ( see next section ).

For example, if your DSK is connected to LPT2 then the VAB will initially not be able tocommunicate with it. You will need to take a moment to setup VAB and DSKcommunication settings. Information on doing this is described in the next section.

9HULI\LQJ'6.2SHUDWLRQRemember that VAB has been designed to run on the DSK hardware. This means thatyou will need to have the DSK setup and connected to your computers parallel port inorder for VAB to communicate to the DSP hardware. Please refer to the DSKdocumentation for information on properly connecting the DSK hardware to yourcomputer.

VAB will not operate correctly if it cannot communicate to the DSK hardware. To verifythat VAB can communicate to the DSK hardware you should select the VAB DSP TargetDriver Setup... menu command. Selection of this command will result in the appearanceof a dialog box that will allow you to select the proper LPT setting for your DSK.

VAB Driver Setup dialog box

You can determine whether or not the DSK is responding at the chosen LPT setting byusing the Test button. This feature will attempt to find the DSK hardware at the LPT

Verify VABs LPTsetting if the C31

SK hardware doesnot respond.


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address youve selected. If the board is found, the test operation will continue bywriting/reading DSK memory. If the test is successful, then the DSK is correctlyresponding to the VAB software, and you will see a message box similar to the one shownbelow:

Driver Test Pass Message Box

:KDWWR'R)LUVWAfter you have installed VAB onto your computer and verified that the DSK isresponding, you are ready to get started. There are several ways in which you can beginusing VAB. You can jump right in and start by running some of the sample worksheetsthat have been provided with the software. You might even feel more comfortable byworking your way through the tutorial section in Chapter 5 to become acquainted withVABs features.

If you are using VAB with the DSK DSP board you will probably want to check outChapter 2 ( VAB Design Environment ) and Chapter 4 ( Block Components ) for informationabout creating your own real-time algorithms on the DSK hardware. These chaptersprovide some useful instructions and explanations for using the real-time block components with the DSK hardware.

No matter which method of beginning suits your style, you will still want to read throughthe remaining chapters of the user manual for additional information and tips. It isadvised that you read these chapters to facilitate your use of the VAB software.

6\VWHP5HTXLUHPHQWVThe VAB software program has been developed to run under Microsoft Windows 95, 98,and NT. The exact amount of extended memory required to run the application dependsupon the particular application being run, the number of other applications being run, andthe complexity of the work being done. In general, the following requirements must bemet to correctly use VAB software with Microsoft Windows.

A personal computer with Intel 80386 processor (or higher) with 4 MB ormore of memory

Microsoft Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows NT A hard disk drive with ~5 MB of free space A CD-ROM Drive

Start by trying theexample worksheets

ovided, or create yourown by following the

tutorial section.


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A pointing device supported by Windows

7HFKQLFDO6XSSRUWThe VAB software package has been designed to provide you with a powerful method of implementing real-time design algorithms on the Texas Instruments DSK hardware. TheVABs easy-to-learn working environment allows an efficient means of implementingthese algorithms. However, this visual design environment is a comprehensive tool withmany user options available. If you have any questions concerning the use of VAB,please refer to the on-line Help and this Users Manual. We are committed to providingyou with the best development platform available, and to making your experience withHyperception software a positive one.

Hyperception maintains a web site, www.hyperception.com/vab , which allows ourcustomers to obtain and exchange new block function libraries, and to receive the latestinformation regarding VAB. The web site is the primary source of support other than theon-line Help and this Users Manual. Comments may also be sent [email protected] .


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&KDSWHU 9$%'HVLJQ(QYLURQPHQW Becoming familiar with the VAB visual design environment is the first step towards getting the most out of its powerful capabilities.

This chapter will discuss the user interface of the VAB visual design environment. Thismaterial is presented because a thorough understanding of how the VAB environmentworks is essential if you are to fully gain the benefits of this powerful development tool.Follow-on chapters will briefly discuss the VAB main menu and toolbar commands thatare used to control the application.

Some of the key components discussed in this section are the VAB Work Area , theToolbar , the Status Line , the Block Worksheet , and the Hierarchy Block Worksheet .

:RUN$UHDThe VAB Work Area is used to organize individual block worksheets. The work area islocated between the menu toolbar located at the top of the application and the status barlocated at the bottom of the application. It is important to remember that the work area isused as a means of organizing worksheets, and is not an area to connect block componenticons. (Connecting block components is performed in the worksheet.)

When you first run VAB, the program will automatically create an empty worksheet andplace it into the work area for you.

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The VAB menu commands are located beneath the VAB window caption bar and arearranged as selectable pull-down menus, each of which has a list of submenu commands.In addition to these menu commands, a toolbar with selectable button commands isavailable. The toolbar commands will perform exactly as their menu commandcounterparts, but provide an alternative method of VAB command selection.

The toolbar is initially located directly beneath the VAB menu commands, but can berepositioned anywhere in the VAB Work Area by simply dragging the toolbar into a newposition. The toolbar can easily be docked by dragging it to the edge of any VABwindow boundary.

VAB Toolbar

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You may find it useful to customize the VAB menu to provide an easier access to VAB menucommands. By using a right-click of your mouse anywhere in the VAB work area you cancause the VAB Customize option to appear. Selecting this option will bring up a dialog boxin which you can choose those menu commands that you use most often. This will allow you to

he VAB Work Area isworkspace that holdsmany different block

worksheets.

The VAB Toolbar canpositioned anywherein the Work Area by

imply dragging it intoposition.


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select VAB menu commands through use of a convenient right-click of the mouse as opposedto using either the VAB menu or toolbar.

Customize right-mouse button command (entering user-selectable menus)

Customize right-mouse button command (after user-selectable menus have been entered)

6WDWXV/LQHThe VAB Status Line is located at the bottom of the applications main window and isused to provide status information to you. The status line is organized into three areaseach of which provides environment status messages.

The first section of the status line is used to show the current operational state of theapplication. When a block worksheet is run, a status message for each block componentwill be displayed when the block is processed. This status will indicate whether the block component is running, or if the block component has a warning message associated withit. When a block component is chosen from the Block Function Selector, a statusmessage will indicate whether the block function was loaded successfully. In addition,clicking on a block icon in a worksheet will display a brief description of that particularblock function. This section of the status display will be used for most generalinformation and messages.

The second section of the Status Line is used to keep track of the number of PC-sideframes that have been processed by VAB.


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The third section of the Status Line will similarly show the run duration of a block worksheet in seconds. Note that the speed at which a worksheet executes (on the PC-side) can be greatly speeded up by turning the status information to off via the ShowStatus menu command.

%ORFN:RUNVKHHWThe VAB visual design environment allows you to create individual Block Worksheets.A Block Worksheet is a window that serves as a workspace for your simulations, and maybe thought of as being like a piece of paper in which an algorithm may be drawn. Eachworksheet can contain many block components arranged in a structured algorithm. Also,each worksheet is capable of incorporating other block worksheets to provide ahierarchical 1 design approach.

Block worksheet windows can be sized by dragging the corners of the worksheet,minimized by selecting the minimize box in the worksheets upper-right corner, restoredby double-clicking the minimized block worksheet icon, and closed by selecting theworksheets system menu close command. Each block worksheet contains a caption bar,which will distinguish it from other worksheets in the work area.

When the VAB application is first run, an empty worksheet is automatically created in thework area. The worksheet will contain the name Worksheet 1 in its caption bar. Thefigure above shows an empty block worksheet.

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You can drag the worksheet into position in the work area by selecting the worksheetscaption bar. You can re-size the worksheet by selecting the corner of the worksheet anddragging it to a new size. The scroll bars of the worksheet will allow you to view sectionsthat lie outside the current viewing area.

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The worksheet can be saved to a filename by use of the File Menu Save command. Seesection File Menu Commands - Save, in this user manual for more information onsaving a block worksheet to a file.

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The block worksheet can be removed by choosing the worksheets system menu closecommand or by double-clicking the upper-left corner of the worksheet. It is not possibleto close a worksheet while it is running.

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The VAB visual design environment supports the use of multiple worksheets. However,only one worksheet can be active at a given time. When you select the Run commandonly the active worksheet will be processed. It is important to keep track of whichworksheet is active. The active worksheet caption bar will be painted the same color asthe work area caption bar. To select a worksheet as the active worksheet you can simplyselect the desired worksheets caption bar with a single-click of the left mouse button.

1 Please see section on Hierarchy Block Worksheets, later in this chapter.

A block worksheet isused to hold the block

components that makeup the algorithm.


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When a worksheet is active, all block components, including hierarchy block, (see below)can run. If however, you select a hierarchy block as the active worksheet and then try torun the application, only the hierarchy block will run. You may find it helpful to alwaysbe aware of which worksheet is active by checking the VAB caption bar.

+LHUDUFK\%ORFNVAny VAB block worksheet that has been inserted into another block worksheet is referredto as a hierarchy block worksheet or hierarchy block. The hierarchy block must havebeen created (typically with external inputs/outputs) and saved as a worksheet with fileextension .LSS. At the time the worksheet is saved it is added to the VAB block component menu under a user-selected library, group, and function menu name. Thisblock may then be used in worksheets in the same fashion as non-hierarchical block components. Hierarchy block worksheets must be designed with external connections if data is to be passed to/from other block components.

Conditional execution of hierarchy block components allows the hierarchy block toexecute based on a user-specified expression. Hierarchy blocks can evaluate if,while, and for statements to determine if and how many times to run before returning

control. To access this feature, create a hierarchy block as normal, and insert it into aworksheet, then right click on the hierarchy block and select the Set Condition menuoption. A dialog box will then be displayed and allow a condition to be entered. Thecondition can be composed of any combination of project variables and the conditionaland mathematical operators.

The syntax for the execution condition is the standard C syntax for if and whilestatements. The for statement is very similar to C syntax. The for statement isbroken into three parts, the initialize statement, the loop condition statement, and theincrement statement. The initialize statement is optional, but if present, it should be of theform = where equation may be a single value or an expression. Theloop condition is required, and can be any valid boolean expression supported. Theincrement statement is optional, but if present should be of the form ++, --,

+=, -=, or = where is a definedproject variable and equation is a combination of project variables and/or constant values.

With this feature it is possible to cause a hierarchy block to never run or to never stoprunning. In either case the Stop command will terminate the worksheet even if thehierarchy block has been set to run in an infinite loop.

In addition to the functions and operators listed in Appendix A, the following relationaloperators have been added greater than (>), greater than or equal (>=), less than (


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the variable index, then this is an infinite loop that will never return control, however, thestop button will still halt the worksheet.

if(0) This statement causes the hierarchy worksheet to never run.


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0HQX&RPPDQGVVAB Menu Commands

The VAB menu commands are located beneath the main window caption bar and arearranged as selectable pull-down menus. Each of these menus contains a list of submenucommands. This starters guide will list some of the common commands and includeFile, Edit, View, Control, Blocks, DSP Target, Tools, Options, Project, Window, andHelp. Selection of the menu names or use of the keyboard accelerator controls (pressingthe Alt key and the letter shown underlined) will also allow you to access the commands.

In addition to the menu commands, a toolbar with selectable button commands isavailable. The toolbar is initially located directly underneath the VAB menu, but you canmove it to any location by simply dragging it to a new position with the mouse. The

toolbar commands perform exactly as their menu command counterparts, but provide aneasier method of selection. To select a command from the toolbar place the mouse cursorover the desired command button and choose it with a single-click of the left button of themouse. You will notice that a description of the command will be displayed on the VABStatus line whenever the mouse cursor is placed over a toolbar button.

Note: Not all menu commands are active in VAB. Some menu items will appeargrayed-out and will not be user-selectable. Hyperception does offer other softwareproducts that do provide access to these commands. If you would like to receiveinformation on these products please contact Hyperception.

)LOH0HQX&RPPDQGVThe file menu is shown either by clicking on the VAB File menu name or by pressing

Alt+F .

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New (Ctrl+N , Toolbar button): The New command will create a new (empty) worksheet.The new block worksheet will become the active worksheet and will be displayed as thetop-most worksheet window. No filename is associated with the new worksheet until it issaved. Its caption bar will be shown as:

Worksheet x

where x is the assigned number of the block worksheet.

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Open (Ctrl+O , Toolbar button): The Open command will load an existing worksheet fileinto the work area. After selecting the Open command a dialog box labeled Open willappear. After selecting a file and clicking the OK button the application will load thechosen worksheet file. Its caption bar will be shown as:

filename.ext

where filename.ext is the selected worksheet filename.

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Not all menucommands listed here

are active in VAB.Some menu items will

appear as grayed-out. These menu

commands are

available in otherHyperception software

products. Please feelfree to contact

Hyperception fordditional information

on these products.


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Close: The Close command will close the current worksheet. If you have made any changes tothe worksheet you will be prompted to save the worksheet; otherwise, the worksheet will beclosed immediately.

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Save (Ctrl+S , Toolbar button): The Save command will save the active block worksheetto a file. Upon selection of this command a dialog box labeled Save will appear. Youwill be able to specify a path and filename for the worksheet (.LST or .LSS) file. If theworksheet you are saving is a Hierarchy worksheet (has external inputs or outputs) thenVAB will prompt you to enter a library, group, and menu name of the hierarchyworksheet.

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Save As : The Save As command allows you to specify a path and a new filename for anexisting worksheet. Upon selection of this command, a dialog box labeled Save As will

appear. After selecting the name of the worksheet and clicking the OK button, VAB willsave the new worksheet.

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Print (Ctrl+P , Toolbar button): The Print command will print the active worksheet.When choosing this command, a basic menu is presented where you may customize thefollowing fields:

Print Quality ( High / Medium / Low / Draft ): Specifies the printing quality to be used.

Copies: Specifies the number of copies of the worksheet to be printed.

The Print Range and Collate Copies commands cannot be changed since the Printcommand only prints one worksheet at a time.

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Print Preview : Switches to a preview screen where the worksheet is displayed as it willappear as hardcopy.

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Print Setup : The Print Setup command allows you to select the printer to where the activeworksheet will be printed. Parameters that can be changed include the orientation, sizeand source of the paper.

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Send: The Send command is available if a compatible electronic mail system is in place.With this command, you can send the current worksheet to another user electronically.


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[Recent Files] : This part of the File Menu lists the four most recent worksheets that havebeen active. The Recent Files list will initially appear empty until you have loaded someworksheets.

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Exit : Exits the application and returns to the Windows desktop or the most currentapplication.

(GLW0HQX&RPPDQGVThe edit menu commands are used to cut, copy and paste block(s) and data lineconnections between the active worksheet and other opened worksheets. You can quicklyduplicate a single block or several blocks by using the edit commands Copy and Paste.An Undo command is also provided to reverse the last edit menu commands action.

To select an object or group of objects, you simply draw a box around the objects of

interest. Drawing the selection box is accomplished by positioning the mouse cursor andthen holding the left mouse button down while dragging to a desired location. Uponreleasing the left mouse button, all objects completely within the selection box will behighlighted. The highlighted objects can then be moved into a new position, copied, orcut. Individual objects can be selected by left-clicking on the object. Both drawing boxesand selecting individual objects are done in Setup Mode.

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Undo (Ctrl+Z ): The Undo command reverses, or undoes, the last commands action.

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Redo (Ctrl+Y ): The Redo command reverses, or undoes, the last Undo commandsaction.

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Cut (Ctrl+X ): The Cut command removes the selected object(s) and places them in theedit/paste buffer.

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Copy (Ctrl+C ): The Copy command places a copy of the selected object(s) and placesthem in the edit/paste buffer.

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Paste (Ctrl+V) : The Paste command places the object(s) saved in the edit/paste bufferwith the Cut or Copy commands on the active worksheet.

9LHZ0HQX&RPPDQGVThe view menu commands are used to customize the user interface to show and removethe status bar and tool bars. The status bar is located at the bottom of the screen, and thetoolbars are initially located at the top.


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Selecting this menu command will cause the toolbar to be hidden or displayed.

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Selecting this menu command will cause the status bar to be hidden or displayed.

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3-Dimensional Icon (Ctrl+3 , Toolbar button): The 3-Dimensional Icon commandtoggles icon display between two and three dimensional icons. Repeated selection of thiscommand will alternate between the two icon styles. This command option does notaffect the performance of any block, but allows for customizing the application. Inaddition to its keyboard accelerator control, the 3-D icon command can be accessedthrough the pull down menu or through its toolbar button.

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Channel Arrows : The Channel Arrows command toggles channel arrow display between

triangular shaped arrows and rectangular connection pads.

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Channel Labels : The Channel Labels commands toggles the display of tool-tip controls thatappear over the block when the application is in one of the connect modes. The channel labelsare defined in each individual blocks resource file and assist in determining which channel isbeing connected.

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Block Labels : The Block Labels commands toggles the display of the block labels whichappear beneath each block in the worksheet.

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Line Labels : The Line Labels command toggles the display of the line labels, which appearalong the longest segment in the line.

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Maximize User Controls : The Maximize User Controls command will toggle usercontrol blocks between maximized and iconic representations.

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Project Tabs : Toggles the display of the project's tab view of the active worksheet. The ProjectTab for a worksheet contains information on the block components used and lists hierarchyinformation.

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Zoom : The zoom command displays a dialog box and allows the user to select the zoomsize used by the print and print preview commands.


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The Layers command is used to perform various layer-related functions. There are severalcommands in a sub-menu displayed by the Layers command. The following sections describeeach of the commands.

View All Layer : The View All Layers command activates all the layers available to be seen.A check-mark will appear by all the layers being displayed.

All Layers Off : The All Layers Off command deactivates all the layers available from beingseen. The check-mark will be removed from all the layers being displayed.

Send to Layer : The Send to Layer command allows the user to highlight a block or groupof blocks and send them to another layer. A dialog box will appear and the user can choosewhich layer or layers to receive the highlighted block or blocks.

AND/OR Layer : The AND/OR Layer command appears as either AND Layer or OR Layer.

Selecting AND Layer activates all layers containing a chosen block or set of blocks to be seen.Selecting OR Layer activates all layers to be seen.

Customize : The Customize command allows the user to select the number of layers to beused. This command also allows for labeling each layer.

&RQWURO0HQX&RPPDQGVThe Control menu is used to control the mode and execution of the VAB environment.The Control menu has four sections that control the mode, compilation, execution, andexecution options for the VAB environment.

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Setup ( Alt+Shift +S, Toolbar button): The Setup command places the environment insetup mode. The mouse cursor will be shown as an arrow. This allows you to double-click or right-click on an abject to modify its parameter setup and also to establish theplacement of individual or groups of block functions within the block worksheet. Block functions can be relocated in the worksheet by selecting the block(s) with the mousecursor and while holding the left button of the mouse down move the block into thedesired position.

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Connect ( Alt+Shift+C , Toolbar button): The Connect command places the environment

in Connect mode. This will allow for the connection of individual block functions withinthe worksheet. The mouse cursor will be shown as a cross-hair cursor labeled eitherSOURCE or DEST and is dependent upon whether the next connection is for a sourceblock or a destination block. It is important to follow the correct connection scheme. Forexample, an input signal generator block connected to an output single-channel displayblock would use the SOURCE cursor to select the signal generator block, and theDEST cursor to select the single-channel display block.

When connecting from a source or to a destination block with more than one channel, thedistinction among channels is accomplished by proximity (vertically oriented) to theYou can connect to

ultiple destination blocksy first using a left-click to

select the source block,

and then use a right-clicki i


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desired channel. For example (see diagram), if there are two channels to select between,the cursor should be located within the block icon boundaries, vertically closest to thedesired channel arrow.

The process of establishing the Data Flow Relationship among blocks is typicallyreferred to as connecting blocks. You will need to enter the Connect mode when

attempting to connect block components together. After selecting the Connect mode, thecursor will change to a target cursor with the label Connect. As the name implies, youshould connect (by clicking once) on either the source or destination channel of thedesired block component.

After the source channel is selected, the cursor immediately changes to a target with theword Dest under the target. Now the user should connect, by clicking once, to thedestination channel of the particular destination block. A line will be drawn immediatelyto indicate the data flow relationship that has just been established. This process shouldbe repeated until all channels are connected.

As the figure below shows, each block icon, or bitmap, is split into the source side (lefthalf) and the destination side (right half). You can connect from source to destination or

from destination to source and this is dependent upon which half of the block is firstclicked. The cursor will change and be labeled either SOURCE or DEST; this isdependent upon whether the next connection is for a source block or a destination block.It is possible to connect to multiple destinations by first left-clicking on the source block and then using the right mouse button to click on the intended destination blocks.

Channel 1 Region

Channel 2 Region

Note: Block Connections must be made within the Block Icon

Channel 1 Region

Channel 2 Region

BLOCK CHANNEL CONNECTIONS

BlockIcon

Channel 3 Region

Destination RegionSource Region

Block showing source/destination regions with multiple block input/output channels

' L V F R Q Q H F W

Disconnect ( Alt+Shift+D , Toolbar button): The Disconnect command places the VABenvironment into a disconnect mode. This will allow for the disconnection of individualblock functions within the worksheet. The mouse cursor will be shown as a cross-haircursor labeled either SOURCE or DEST depending on whether the next disconnectionis for a source block or a destination block.

& R Q G L W L R Q D O & R Q Q H F W

Conditional Connect (Ctrl+Shift+C , Toolbar button): The Conditional Connectcommand connects a block as an operator such that the first element in the source outputframe determines the run state of the destination block. Conditional connections are red

A block component cane resized to provide for

easier connection.Simply drag the block

nto the desired positionwith the mouse.

The Conditional Connectmode is a very powerful

ature that allows a blockfunctions data output to

control whether or notnother block (or group of locks) will be executed in

a worksheet.


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(default) in color and connect to the top of destination blocks to distinguish them fromstandard data connections and parameter connections.

& R Q G L W L R Q D O ' L V F R Q Q H F W

Conditional Disconnect (Ctrl+Shift+D ): The Conditional Disconnect command removesa conditional connection.

3 D U D P H W H U & R Q Q H F W

Parameter Connect (Ctrl+Alt+Shift+C , Toolbar button): The Parameter Connectcommand controls a blocks parameters such that the first element in the source outputframe determines the run state of the selected parameter of the destination block.Parameter connections are initially green (default) in color and connect to the bottom of destination blocks to distinguish them from standard data connections and conditionalconnections.

When you have established a parameter connection, a dialog box will appear in whichyou can select which of the connected blocks setup parameter to affect.

3 D U D P H W H U ' L V F R Q Q H F W

Parameter Disconnect (Ctrl+Alt+Shift+D ): The Parameter Disconnect commandremoves a parameter assignment (green) connection.

' H O H W H

Delete ( Delete or DEL depending on keyboard, Toolbar button): The Delete commandplaces the environment in Delete mode. This will allow for the removal of individualblock functions from the block worksheet. In addition to deleting blocks, any connectionbetween blocks may also be deleted. When in the delete mode, the mouse cursor willappear as an arrow and a pair of scissors. To remove a block or connection, place themouse cursor over the object to be removed and select the left button of the mouse. Anyhighlighted objects selected in Delete mode will be removed to the Paste buffer.

6 H W & R P S L O H 2 U G H U

Set Compile Order : The Set Compile Order command allows the user to manually set thecompile order of the blocks. This information is saved in the list file so that the integrity of thedesign is preserved. When this option is selected the compilation sequence is delineated by theuse of numeric labels that are attached to the individual block icons.

7 H [ W % R [

Text Box (Toolbar Button) : The Text Box command allows you to create a text box object thatcan be placed anywhere in the worksheet. The text box allows you to select the font, color, andsize of the text and can be moved anywhere in the worksheet. This command is useful forproviding a means of adding annotation to the worksheet.

& R P S L O H

Compile (Ctrl+F8 , Toolbar button): The Compile menu command will re-sequence theblock functions of the active block worksheet. Re-sequencing is necessary after addingblock functions to a worksheet or after changing data flow relationships within aworksheet.

The Parameter Connectmode allows any blocks

data output to directlymodify any other blocks

function parameters.


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5 H V H W

Reset (Shift+F5 , Toolbar button): The Reset command resets all time dependentparameters of the active block worksheet. Parameters such as file and frame position willbe set to their respective beginning locations.

5 X Q

Run (Ctrl+F5 , Toolbar button): The Run menu command will cause the VABenvironment to run the active worksheet. The environment will continue to run the activeworksheet until halted with the Stop command or the Escape key on the keyboard. If theShow Status menu option has been selected, then each block will be highlighted as it isexecuted. A red highlight indicates that the block has all the input data and the functionof that block is being performed properly. A yellow highlight indicates that at least oneinput channel has no valid data or an error occurred in the blocks algorithm and theoperation is suspended for this execution cycle.

) U D P H 6 W H S

Frame Step (F12 , Toolbar button): The Frame Step command will cause the executionof N frames of the active block worksheet and then halt. Continuing to select the FrameStep command will result in the next N frames of data to be processed. This commandcan be thought of as a Run N Frames command, and is useful for monitoring thealgorithm in closer detail (frame-by-frame analysis when the frame step is set to 1[default]). The frame step can be changed from its initial value of 1 through the SetFrame Step command described below. The framesize used during frame stepping isdetermined by the framesize parameter setup of the block functions used in the worksheet.

6 L Q J O H 6 W H S

Single Step (F10 ): The Single Step command will cause a single block function in aworksheet to be executed. The initial use of this command will only highlight the firstblock to execute (a yellow line will be drawn around the block) without actually executingthe block function. Subsequent single step commands will execute the highlighted block function, and then highlight (without executing) the next block to be executed.Hierarchical blocks are executed completely.

6 W R S

Stop ( Esc , Toolbar button): The Stop command allows you to interrupt the execution of the worksheet when it is running.

6 H W ) U D P H 6 W H S

Set Frame Step : The Set Frame Step command is used to modify the frame stepparameter for use with the Frame Step command described earlier. The default value is 1,

but this may be changed between the values of 1 and 2^

30 inclusive.

6 K R Z 6 W D W X V 7 X U E R P R G H R Q Z K H Q G L V D E O H G

Show Status : The Show Status command is used to toggle between notification modes.When Show Status is enabled, status information will be displayed during the executionof the simulation. Statistics such as current processing block, time, frame updates,warnings, errors, and function execution status will be displayed. Your worksheet willperform more slowly than with status disabled. When status is disabled (default, Turbo

Worksheets will executefaster when the Show

tatus option is disabled .


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Mode), simulations run much faster; this is quite useful for long running simulations, ornon-frame based (point-by-point) types of problems.

%ORFNV0HQX&RPPDQGVThe Blocks menu is used to select blocks for placement on the active worksheet, add a

new block to the Block Function Selector, and provide an auto-build of the block functionlist.

6 H O H F W % O R F N V

Select Blocks (Ctrl+B, Toolbar button): The Select Blocks command activates theBlock Function Selector tool. This allows blocks to be selected for placement on theactive worksheet or on the hot list toolbar.

The Block Function Selector allows you to choose from several function libraries. Someof these libraries include Simulation, Real-time, Matrix, Image Processing,Instrumentation, and User Controls. Optional libraries are available for those productsthat do not include libraries you may want, including Advanced Transmission, Advanced

Speech, and Image Processing. Please contact Hyperception should the need arise foradditional libraries. Users can create their own function libraries as well by making theirown custom block components with the Block Wizard tool.

The Block Function Selector tool provides several function groups, each containing block functions. You can scroll through the group and function lists. If the left mouse button isclicked on a group, then all the functions in that group will appear in the function list. Afunction can also be selected with a single mouse click.

There are several ways to select groups and functions in addition to a single mouse click.If you hold the mouse button down and scroll through either list, you can select multipleitems at one time. You can select multiple items individually by holding the Ctrl keydown while you click on an item. You can also use the Shift key to select all items from

the last highlighted item to the selected item.

If you double-click on a function, that functions block is placed in the upper left corneron the active worksheet. If you choose, you may also Drag and Drop functions from theBlock Function Selector window directly to the worksheet and place the blocks wherethey need to be. Highlighted functions can also be added to the worksheet by clicking onthe Add to Worksheet button.

The list of highlighted function groups can be cleared with the Clear Group List button,and all function groups can be selected to display all available block functions with theSelect All Groups button.

$ G G 1 H Z % O R F N

Add New Block The Add New Block command allows new block components to beadded to the Block Function Selector tool list so they can be used in within theenvironment. When the Add New Block command is selected, a file selection dialog boxwill appear. Select the new DLL or LSS file(s) to add and click on OK. The newly addedblock function will then appear in the desired library and function group.

addition to using theBlock Function

Selector, you can alsocreate your own

floating tool palettes

that contain blockcomponents of yourhoice. This allows you

to conveniently selectthose block

components that youuse most frequently.


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$ X W R % X L O G 0 H Q X

Auto Build Menu (Ctrl+F7) The Auto Build Menu command rebuilds the Block Function Selector tools group and function lists. It searches specified directories for allblock DLLs and LSS files. For each block DLL or LSS file that it finds, it adds theblocks library, group and function information to the menu.

'637DUJHW0HQX&RPPDQGVThe VAB DSP Target menu provides several commands that allow you to control andobserve any of the DSP resources in your system. This section identifies and describesthe commands that are available for use with DSP hardware.

The DSP Target menu is shown either by clicking on the DSP Target menu name or bypressing ALT+D.

The following is a short summary of the DSP Target menu commands.

Default Driver Selects the default DSP driver used for subsequent commands

DSP-Based Variables Defines any DSP-based variables used in a worksheet design

Driver Files Displays driver-related files

Help Displays real-time driver on-line help

Initialization Displays real-time driver initialization

Output Displays several types of real-time driver output files

Revision History Displays drivers revision history

Driver Globals Selects global options for specific DSP or all DSPs

Driver Utilities Selects utilities provided by default driver

Driver Setup Setup the selected DSP board driver with the current systemconfiguration

Link Files Selects files used by the drivers internal linker

Import File Imports external executable, object and symbol files into DSPmemory

Export Application Exports the real-time application to an executable DSP COFFfile

Memory Various DSP memory options

Copy Copies DSP memory range to specified address

Dump Dumps DSP memory range to screen or file

Fill Fills DSP memory with specified data pattern


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Load Loads DSP memory with ASCII, binary or COFF file data

Plot Plots DSP memory range in a variety of formats

Search Searches DSP memory for specified data pattern

Map Display/edit current DSP memory map

Usage Displays current memory map usage

Symbols Displays symbolic information for the worksheet compiled tothe selected DSP target

Profile Displays block and DSP profiling information

Syncs Display block synchronization (Sync In/Sync Out) information

Interrupts Displays blocks that are tied to DSP interrupts

Statistics Displays statistics about the current DSP resource

DSP Control Control selected DSP (run, stop, reset)

The following sections provide detailed descriptions of these DSP Target menucommands.

' H I D X O W ' U L Y H U

The Default Driver menu command is used to select the default DSP board driver thatwill be used by all functions in the DSP Target menu and all real-time blocks. When thiscommand is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below will appear:

Selection of the Default DSP Board Driver

The dialog box contains a single combo box that allows you to select the default DSPboard driver for all other DSP Target menu functions

In addition to the DPS Target menu functions, new blocks added to a worksheet will usethis default DSP driver. The default DSP driver may be overridden at the block level bychanging the block functions selected DSP driver.

/ R D G Z L W K ' H I D X O W ' U L Y H U

When this option is selected, as indicated by an adjacent check mark, all blocks will beloaded with the default driver selected. This option is useful for seamlessly porting aVAB design from one DSP hardware platform to another.


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' 6 3 % D V H G 9 D U L D E O H V

Selecting this VAB menu command will bring up a dialog box that lists all currentlydefined DSP-based variables available for use in a worksheet. You can enter variablenames, initial values, data type, and data size. You can reference these DSP-basedvariables with individual block components in your worksheet design.

' U L Y H U ) L O H V

The Driver Files command is used to display driver-related driver files including on-linehelp, initialization, output and revision history files. The ability to display variousdrivers files directly from VAB is useful because it eliminates the need to leave the VABenvironment to display or print the files. The following sections describe each of themenu items.

+ H O S

The Help command invokes the Windows help engine with the on-line help file for thecurrently selected VAB real-time driver. Help can also be invoked from VABs Helpmenu.

, Q L W L D O L ] D W L R Q

The Initialization command displays the current drivers initialization file, which providesall DSP board configuration information for that driver.

2 X W S X W

The Output command displays various types of real-time driver output files such asinterrupt table, memory map, profile, system statistics, symbol table, sync table andmemory map usage files for user analysis. The comprehensive system statistics are notdisplayed on the screen, so this it is helpful to be able to display statistics files directlyfrom VAB.

5 H Y L V L R Q + L V W R U \

The Revision History command displays a list of the default drivers revision history.This information is useful because it quickly identifies recent driver enhancements andproblem fixes.

' U L Y H U * O R E D O V

The Driver Globals command is used to select options that are global to a specific DSPresource. When this command is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below willappear (DSP drivers may support different global options):


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Driver Global Configuration

The Driver Globals dialog box provides several options that can be applied to a singleDSP resource or all DSP resources controlled by the selected default DSP board driver.A single DSP resource is selected by scrolling through the Board and DSP numbers.The scrolling will automatically limit your selection to your system configuration, so if you have only one board installed, the board number will not scroll. Similarly, if a boardonly has one DSP, then the DSP number will not scroll. If the All checkbox is selected,all global options will be applied to all the DSPs in the system controlled by the driver.

When the Force Interrupt checkbox is selected, the complete VAB worksheet runningon the selected DSP resource can be tied to a specific interrupt so that it only executeswhen an the interrupt occurs. The interrupt is selected with the adjacent combo box thatprovides a list of all DSP interrupts.

When the Profile DSP checkbox is selected, the complete DSP algorithm will beprofiled. This profile information can be obtained from any blocks DSP Informationdialog box or from the Real-time Profile... command.

When the Force Block Profile checkbox is selected all blocks will be profiled withouthaving to activate each blocks profile mode individually. This profile information can beobtained from the blocks Block Information dialog boxes or from the Real-timeProfile... command.

The Compilation Target can be selected to be DSP memory or PC memory. When DSPmemory is selected, a DSP board must be installed in the system because all memoryaccesses will be attempted to the DSPs memory. When PC memory is selected (Virtual

DSP mode), all memory accesses will be to a DSP memory image stored in the PCsmemory, so a board is not required.

Other global options that may appear are driver-dependent and are described in thespecific drivers documentation.

' U L Y H U 6 H W X S

The Driver Setup menu command allows you to select the proper configuration foreach DSP resource in your system. A memory test option is also provided for a


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convenient method of determining whether or not the DSP board is responding at thechosen settings.

Upon selection of the DSP Target Driver Setup menu option, a dialog box similar tothe one shown below will appear.

Driver Setup Dialog Box

The Driver Info button can be pressed to determine the drivers version number anddate.

/ L Q N ) L O H V

The Link Files command is used to select the files used by the DSP board drivers built-inlinker to allocate memory and resolve external references. When this command isselected, a dialog box similar to the one below will appear:

Link File Configuration

Link files can include object, library, and linker command files. These files can beselected for a specific DSP resource or for all DSP resources managed by the default DSPboard driver. Since each DSP resource is handled independently you may have one DSP


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that uses one run-time library and another DSP that uses a different one. You can alsoassign the same link files to all DSP resources by selecting the All checkbox.

You may add and delete files, or even clear the link file list completely, by using therespective dialog box buttons. After you have selected all the link files you can acceptthem by clicking on OK. If you want to discard your changes, you can exit by clicking

on Cancel. The selected link files will be used during the next VAB compilation.

If you compile a real-time worksheet without adding all of the files that are required toresolve external references a warning will be displayed. You can add the required files byusing the Link Files... command.

, P S R U W ) L O H

The Import File command is used to import executable, object, and symbolic informationfiles. When this command is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below will appear:

Import File Dialog Box

You can load an external executable or object file into the selected DSPs memoryallowing external applications that were not created with VAB to be executed and tested.Note that this may require that you modify the real-time memory-map for the selectedtarget DSP board in order to provide correct segment names and addressing (see MemoryMap section which follows). The external application can be controlled using the Real-time Control functions to run, stop and reset the selected DSP.

You can also load ASCII symbolic information files containing symbol names and

symbol values to resolve external symbols in special cases.

( [ S R U W $ S S O L F D W L R Q

The Export Application command is used to export the current real-time VAB design toan executable DSP application that can be ported to an embedded system or otherplatform. The output COFF file can be used to program a PROM, load a DSP target via ahost, loaded into a simulator or loaded into target hardware with a emulator/debugger.


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Note - The Export Application... command is a very powerful feature of Hypersignal RIDE. Real-time algorithms can be created within RIDEand then exported to a COFF output file. This DSP executable file isproduced just as if you had written the source code yourself, and thenused a DSP assembler/linker/compiler to create it.

Because the real-time memory map is user-configurable, and the real-time driversupports virtual DSP mode with no DSP board in the system, applications can be

exported to any target hardware.

The application export capability eliminates the need for the intermediate C codegeneration step, which is required to export non-real-time designs.

The following figure shows that the only user input required to export an application is afilename. By clicking on the Export button, the complete real-time VAB application isexport for external use.

Export Application Dialog Box

0 H P R U \

The Memory command is used to perform various DSP memory-related functions. Thereare several commands available in a sub-menu displayed by the Memory command. Thefollowing sections describe each of the memory commands.

& R S \

The Copy command is used to copy a range of DSP memory to another area of DSPmemory. When this command is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below will

appear:


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Memory Dump Dialog Box

The specific DSP resource is selected by choosing the board and DSP numbers. Thedestination of the memory dump can either be the screen or a file. If a file is thedestination, a browse box is activated to allow the filename to be selected. ASCII, binary,and COFF filenames default to .ASC, .BIN, and .OBJ file extensions respectively.

Six types of data formats are supported: hexadecimal, unsigned integer, integer, float,character and instruction. The start address and length of the memory dump must also bespecified.

The following is an example memory dump. Note that the data format can be usermodified from within the memory dump display.


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Memory Display Dialog Box

) L O O

The Fill command is used to fill a range of the specified DSP resources memory with aselected data pattern. When this command is selected, a dialog box similar to the onebelow will appear:

Memory Fill Dialog Box


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The specific DSP resource is selected by choosing the board and DSP numbers. Theremaining parameters define the memory fill operation. The memory type (if applicablefor the specific DSP) can either be program or data memory. The data type can beinteger, float or instruction (if applicable). The address is where the fill will start. Thefill value is the data value that will be written into the DSPs memory. The length definesthe size of the memory fill.

/ R D G

The Load command is used to load a file of data at a specified address in a DSPresources memory. When this command is selected, a dialog box similar to the onebelow will appear:

Memory Load Dialog Box

The specific DSP resource is selected by choosing the board and DSP numbers. The fileformat for the source data can be ASCII, binary or COFF format. The file data will beimported and stored in the selected DSPs memory at the specified address.

3 O R W

The Plot command is used to plot a range of the DSP resources memory. When thiscommand is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below will appear:


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Memory Plot Dialog Box

The DSP memory range is defined with a starting memory address and length. The datatype of the memory region must be defined as integer or float. The update mode can bemanual or automatic. In manual mode, the plot will only update when selected by theuser from the plots menu. In automatic mode, the plot updates as fast as it can.Automatic mode is useful for monitoring a data that is constantly changing. If the DSP isnot running, or the data is not changing, manual mode is sufficient.

There are several different types of plots available which are user-configurable. Thefollowing is an example memory plot.

Example Memory Plot Display


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6 H D U F K

The Search command is used to search the DSP resources memory for a specified datapattern. When this command is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below willappear:

Memory Search Dialog Box

The specific DSP resource is selected by choosing the board and DSP numbers. You canchoose the search criteria applicable to the selected DSP such as the memory type (data orprogram), data type (integer or float), address range and search value.

A search can be initiated by clicking on the First Match or Next Match buttons to find thefirst occurrence or next occurrence of the search value within the selected address range.The result of the search is displayed in the Search Result area of the dialog box.

0 D S

VAB maintains a memory map for the target DSP. VAB uses the memory map is usedwhen the real-time algorithm is executed by the target DSP.

The Map memory command allows you to display and modify the DSPs current memorymap. When this command is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below will appear:


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Memory Map Dialog Box

The specific DSP resource is selected by choosing the appropriate board and DSP targetnumbers. The memory map output lists the available system memory including memorysection names, start addresses, end addresses and memory types.

Any of the memory segments listed in the memory-map can be modified. By double-clicking on a segment name, a dialog box will appear in which the modifications wouldbe made. The memory-map does not allow you to overlap segments. It is quite helpful tocalculate the desired address locations first, clear the memory map, and then make thenew changes.

The memory map dialog boxs File menu allows a memory map to be saved to a file andread from a file. This can be quite convenient for situations where individual real-timeworksheets require unique memory-maps. For example, a worksheet that requires a very

large delay value might assign the HEAP segment to be much larger than normal. Also, if the target DSP hardware has more memory, you can take advantage of it by adding it tothe memory-map. The Edit menu allows memory segments to be added, cleared, deletedand modified. Additionally, a default memory map can be selected.

8 V D J H

The Usage memory command displays a DSP resources current memory map usage.When this command is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below will appear.


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Memory Usage Dialog Box

The memory map usage shows each memory segments name, start address, size, andamount of memory used in both absolute addresses and percent. A summary of totalmemory is displayed at the bottom of the dialog box.

6 \ P E R O V

The Symbols command is used to display the symbolic information for all of the blocksthat are selected in the real-time block worksheet. When this command is selected, adialog box similar to the one below will appear:


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Symbol Table Dialog Box

The symbol table includes a list of symbol names along with their values and memorysegments in which they were defined. A summary of the total number of symbols anduser-defined symbols is provided at the bottom of the display. This symbolic informationcan be used in conjunction with a DSP debugger to analyze code at the assembly level.

The memory content of a referenced symbol can be displayed by double-clicking on thesymbols name. This is convenient for viewing assembly language op-codes or checkingon variable contents.

3 U R I L O H

The Profile command is used to display the profiling information for all of the blocksselected for profile. Each block can be selected to operate in profile mode; this allowsyou to determine the processing time of the block. Additionally, the Driver Globals...command can be used to force a profile of all blocks and the complete DSP algorithm.When the Profile... command is selected, a dialog box similar to the one below willappear:


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Profile Dialog Box

The specific DSP resource is selected by choosing the board and DSP numbers. Theprofile information provides the total number of times that each block has been executed,the number of DSP clock cycles for a single block execution, and the total number of DSPclock cycles that each block executed.

The profiling mode is useful in calculating how many clock cycles a particular block function requires. This information can be helpful in determining how much processingtime is available.

6 \ Q F V

The Syncs... real-time menu command is used to display the use of all synchronizationflags that are active on the selected DSP. Synchronization flags allow blocks to run atdifferent rates allowing VAB to support multi-rate processing.

In each blocks parameter dialog box, the block can be selected to control a SYNC OUTsignal and/or monitor a SYNC IN signal. Blocks may use the SYNC OUT signal tonotify other blocks when output data is valid. Blocks may use the SYNC IN signal tomonitor the output syncs from other blocks. There are numerous sync flags from which tochoose. Currently the only VAB supplied real-time block functions that provide SYNCOUT signals are the hardware-specific A/D block functions. Users can create their ownreal-time blocks that allow for SYNC OUT flag generation.


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When an A/D (or user-created) function is set to generate a SYNC OUT signal, any block function which sets its SYNC IN flag to match will only execute when the sync flag isvalid. In this way, a block or series of blocks can be setup such that they do notrepeatedly process the same frame of data, and will only execute when a new frame of data is available.

Sync information can be either written to a file or displayed on the screen. The sync tableincludes the sync number, name, address, direction, function name and function address.The sync table provides a quick way to see what blocks on the specified DSP aresynchronized. The following shows the output of a typical sync table.

Example Sync Table

The name of the sync flag is obtained by a block function from the respective driversinitialization file. The sync names are arbitrary, so you can rename them if desired byediting the appropriate real-time driver initialization file. The direction of a sync flag caneither be an output (O) or and input (I). In the case of an output sync, the block must be

written to provide output sync information. For example, A/D conversion and bufferblocks provide output sync information because their outputs are only available at certaintimes. In the case of an input sync flag, the associated functions will only execute whenthe selected sync flag is set active by another block that sets the SYNC OUT flag.

, Q W H U U X S W V

The Interrupts... menu command is used to display the list of block functions that are tiedto DSP interrupts on the selected DSP resource. In each blocks parameter dialog box,


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the block can be selected to execute only when a specific interrupt occurs. A single block or several blocks can be tied to a single interrupt to form an interrupt service routine.

The interrupt table includes the DSPs interrupt number and name, the interrupt handlerentry address, the block functions that are tied to the specific interrupt, and the address of the code associated with each block. The number and names of interrupts are processor-

dependent, but the interrupt table maintains a consistent format regardless of the DSPtype.

6 W D W L V W L F V

The Statistics... real-time menu command can be used to display statistical informationabout the selected DSP resource such as its memory map, memory allocation, block allocation and miscellaneous DSP-specific information. When this command is selected,a dialog box similar to the one below will appear:

Statistics Dialog Box

' 6 3 & R Q W U R O

The DSP Control... real-time menu command provides the ability to control the selectedDSP resource by placing it in the reset, run, or hold mode of operation. These DSPcontrol functions are intended to control execution of external COFF files that are loadedinto DSP memory using the Import File... command. When the DSP resource isselected, a control dialog box such as the one below will be displayed.

When a specific DSP resource is selected via the OK button, a floating palette of DSPcontrol buttons is displayed, which allows direct control of the DSP resource. Thesecontrol buttons will vary depending on the driver selected.


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7RROV0HQX&RPPDQGVThe Tools menu contains commands that allow you to run other applications directly fromwithin the VAB environment. The default Tools menu includes the Stand-aloneApplication Builder, Block Wizard, Filter Design utility, the ANSI C Source CodeGenerator, and the Windows Calculator applications. If any of the tools are not installed,

the application menu entree will be grayed out. Otherwise, if you select a tool from theTools menu, the tool will be invoked.

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A demonstration version of the HAppI Wizard run-time application builder has beenincluded with the Standard Editions of all the Hypersignal visual design environments.You will be able to use this Wizard to produce time-limited, standalone Windowsapplications from your visual design worksheets.

% O R F N : L ] D U G

The Block Wizard is included as a standard tool with all editions of the Hypersignal

visual design environments and allows you to create your own block functions.

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The ANSI C Code Generator is included in all Hypersignal Block Diagram, HypersignalRIDE, and Hypersignal ImageDSP Enterprise Editions. However, if you did not purchasean Enterprise Edition you can still purchase the ANSI C Code separately. If the C CodeGenerator has previously been installed then you can launch it by choosing this menucommand. For more details regarding the ANSI C Code Generator please contactHyperception.

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The Filter Design utility allows you to create FIR and IIR filter coefficient files that canbe used by block components. The Filter Design utility was created to allow users toquickly and easily create Digital Filters for use in DSP applications without requiring theuser to be an expert in DSP or in digital filters. Simply by providing the high-level designinformation for a particular filter, the filter design utility will produce the digital filtercoefficients in an ASCII text file which may be used for real-time/simulation directly inthe Hypersignal environment, or in the users own application. The Hypersignal filterdesign utility may be easily invoked by selecting the Filter Design menu selection underthe Tools main menu. Additionally, if the HyperLAB task bar is being used the FilterDesign utility may be invoked by simply clicking on the filter design icon. After the filterdesign utility is invoked, the user may start designing digital filters.

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The Windows calculator can conveniently be selected from this menu command.

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Choosing this menu command will allow you to customize the Tools menu with the insertion of additional applications.


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Stop On Warning is on by default when you open the environment. It can be toggledbetween ON/OFF by using the pull-down Options menu, by pressing Ctrl+W or byclicking on its toolbar button. If Stop On Warning is turned off, the yellow border willstill appear in the appropriate block - but the program will still run, which in some casescould result in a subsequent error message.

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Snap to Grid (Ctrl+G , Toolbar button): The Snap To Grid allows for placing (orremoving) a positioning grid from the active worksheet. To alternate between Snap ToGrid and free form block placement, you may use the pull-down menu, press Ctrl+G , orclick on the grid toolbar button.

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Solid Grid : The Solid Grid command toggles between having solid grid lines and justpixels at each intersection of a line. The default setting for Solid Grid is set to off.

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Set Icon & Display Size : The Set Icon & Display Size allows for conveniently setting theicon and display size for all blocks on the worksheet. In addition, this command sets thespacing used to display the positioning grid. The icon width and icon height parametersare used to set the vertical and horizontal spacing of the grid.

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Set System Colors and Fonts : The Set System Colors and Fonts command is a user-friendly interface to change the colors of the components within the environment. Bychanging the values of each one of the basic Red-Green-Blue colors from 0 to 255, thefollowing elements colors may be customized:

Main Frame Work Areas

Connection LinesControl LinesChannel LabelsGrid LinesChannel LabelsGrid StylesChannel Label Sizes

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Customize Toolbars : The Customize Toolbars command allows for customizing a newor existing toolbar with block functions. When this menu command is chosen, a dialogbox appears in which you can select from all function library groups. By grabbing ablock functions icon with the left mouse button, you can drag it into the work area. Byplacing the selected icon onto a toolbar and then releasing the left mouse button, you willcause the corresponding block function to appear in the toolbar. Placing the icon outsideof a toolbar will cause a new toolbar to be created.

This menu command is useful for creating toolbars that contain the block functions thatyou most commonly use.


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3URMHFWThe following menu commands are contained in the Project menu: Undo Buffer Size,Variables, Previous Level, Security/Permissions, and Properties. Each of these menuoptions is discussed below:

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Undo Buffer Size : The Undo Buffer Size command displays a dialog box that allows forsetting the size of the undo buffer. The number in the dialog box represents the number of commands that should be stored in the undo and redo buffers during cut/copy/paste editcommands.

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Variables : The Variables command allows for adding, modifying, and viewing the globalvariables defined for the current project.

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Previous Level : The Previous Level command takes you up a level in hierarchy and makesthe parent worksheet the active worksheet.

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Security/Permissions : The Security/Permissions command allows for setting passwords forRead/Write protection. This option is useful in situations where you do not want worksheets(which may be a top-level worksheet or hierarchy file) to be modified.

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Properties : The Properties command allows for accessing the worksheet properties. If theblock is a hierarchy block, the library, group, and block name information is displayed in thedialog box.

:LQGRZ0HQX&RPPDQGVThe Window menu commands control the display of the worksheet windows. Every top-level and hierarchy worksheet has its own window which can be displayed in variousways. You can cascade, tile and close all the open worksheets using these Window menucommands.

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Cascade : The Cascade command cascades all the open windows so that the are placed ontop of one another with their title bars showing for selection. The active worksheet isshown with a highlighted title bar.


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Tile Horizontally : The Tile Horizontally command tiles all the open worksheet windowshorizontally so that they can all be displayed simultaneously. The active worksheet isshown with a highlighted title bar.

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Tile Vertically : The Tile Vertically command tiles all the open worksheet windowsvertically so that they can all be displayed simultaneously. The active worksheet is shownwith a highlighted title bar.

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Arrange Icons : The Arrange Icons command aligns all the minimized worksheets iconsat the bottom of the work area. When a worksheet is minimized, it is represented as anicon on the work area. This command is useful to organize worksheet icons.

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Refresh Display : The Refresh Display command forces the environment to repaint the currentworksheet.

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Close All : The Close All command closes all the open worksheet windows. If aworksheet has been modified without being saved, the environment prompts whether tosave the worksheet file before closing the window.

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Opened Files : At the bottom of the Window menu, a list of currently opened worksheetsis displayed. You can move from one worksheet window to another quickly by selectingfrom this list. If the windows are cascaded, the selected worksheet is brought to the topand becomes the active worksheet. If the windows are tiled, the selected worksheetbecomes the active worksheet.

+HOS0HQX&RPPDQGVThe Help Menu commands provide on-line help for VAB application. There are variouslevels of help available and includes the standard product help, block componentreference, upgrade information, and other relevant information about the environment.This comprehensive help system is composed of several individual help files.

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Contents : This menu selection brings up the main help page for the environment. Fromthis main help page, a variety of top-level help areas using the Hot Key text (typicallygreen colored) may be selected. In turn, these top level help areas will provide furtherinformation and possibly additional Hot Key text fields allowing you to navigate to anappropriate section regarding a particular question.


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6 H D U F K I R U + H O S 2 Q

Search for Help On : The Search for Help On menu item brings up the standard helpsearch mechanism which allows for quick study of all help topics contained within themain Help file. You can either browse through the list of main help entrees, or simplystart typing the first few characters of the item in question. Once the initial help entree isselected, all help topics associated with that selection may be displayed in the second helpwindow. Finally, by either double-clicking on a particular topic, or selecting the topicand pressing the Go to button, you are lead to more detailed information regarding thattopic.

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How to Use Help : The standard windows help file is brought up from this menuselection. This help file allows for getting more information regarding the standardWindows Help System. It explains in detail how you can navigate through help files tolocate information more quickly and efficiently.

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Block Function Reference : The function reference help system allows for more detailedinformation on each of the block functions. This help system provides an alpha keyselection section to allow for discriminating alphabetically among all of the functions, andthen use Hot Key text to quickly locate the information regarding a specific block function. Certain block functions may even include bitmap example worksheets thatdemonstrate the usage of the block function in a complete worksheet.

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Tip of the Day : The Tip of the Day brings up a window with bits of helpful information.There is a box that can be checked denoting whether or not to see the Tip of the Dayevery time the application is started. Note that when the Tip of the Day is selected, youwill not be able to invoke a worksheet by selecting its filename. For example, if youdouble-click on a worksheets .LST filename icon, this will cause the application to belaunched. If Tip of the Day is NOT selected, then the chosen worksheet willautomatically be loaded. Otherwise, the Tip of the Day will be displayed and noworksheet will be loaded.

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The sub-menu for the Hyperception Internet Link command contains several options thatlink to several web sites. These sites include Hyperceptions web page, HypersignalUsers web page, DSP hardware locator service, on line Tech Support, and HyperceptionFTP site for downloading files from the internet.

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Product Upgrades/Info : The Product Upgrades/Info brings up detailed informationregarding additional products and upgrades that might be found useful in certainapplications. This is a good source for determining which optional block functionlibraries exist, and the procedure one would follow to upgrade or purchase furtherproducts from Hyperception.


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:RUNLQJZLWK%ORFN&RPSRQHQWV

Some suggestions for using the basic building blocks in your design

When you are using VAB to create your own real-time designs for use on the TexasInstruments DSK hardware you will find that working with block components willbecome a common aspect to building-up a worksheet. Therefore, you will need tounderstand some basic issues with regard to using block components in your design.

This chapter is not intended to cover such items as connecting blocks, or setting a blocksuser-parameters ( you can refer to other chapters of this manual for this type of information ). Rather, its purpose is to help you understand how best to use the block components in the construction of your VAB designs. There are several useful guidelinesto follow (or at least keep in mind) when building your worksheets, and these suggestionswill be presented here.

'6.0HPRU\First, it is important to keep in mind memory limitations of your particular DSKhardware. For the purpose of this section, lets use the C31 DSK as an example. TheC31 DSK hardware contains a limited amount of memory. In fact, the only memoryavailable on the DSK is that of the on-chip memory of the TMS320C31 DSP chip. Thismemory space is what the VAB program uses when building your algorithm for use bythe DSP. To best take advantage of this memory, you will need to understand how VABuses the available memory space. [ Note: You can purchase a SuperDSK board that will

provide your C31 DSK hardware with lots of external memory; this allows you to createmuch larger programs within VAB. Please check VABs on-line Help for informationabout the SuperDSK. ]

You should be aware that the on-chip memory is a fixed size of 2K words of memory. Of this space, the VAB program requires that an on-board program, or kernel, be resident inmemory. This allows VAB to transfer data to and from the DSK hardware. While this isimportant it does come at a cost of a reduced available amount of memory on the DSKhardware.

Each DSP-based block component that you use in your worksheet design takes up somememory of the DSK. For example, a block component has associated with it a section of code that is executed by the DSP. Also, a block component may allocate a region of memory for storage of any of its unique working parameters (e.g. a Sine generatorcontains information on such parameters as amplitude and frequency settings). Someblocks may require a region of memory for data storage. All of this memory use adds up especially quickly when you consider the memory limitation imposed by the DSKhardware.

So, how can we best take advantage of the limited amount of memory left over forcreating real-time algorithms? You will find that there are tradeoffs you can make whenmaking a VAB worksheet. Here are several ideas to consider when constructing aworksheet:

&KDSWHU

he C31 DSK containsonly on-chip DSP

memory. This placessome restrictions on

he way you build-up aVAB worksheet whendesigning for the C31

DSK hardware.

Documents

VAB User Manual