Method and apparatus for testing field programmable gate arrays

A method of testing a field programmable gate array including programmable logic blocks and a programmable routing network comprising the steps of:

• testing said programmable logic blocks;
• configuring a first group of programmable logic blocks to include at least one test pattern generator and at least one output response analyzer, and a subset of said programmable routing network to include at least two groups of wires under test;
• initiating a built-in self-test;
• generating a first set of test patterns with said at least one test pattern generator,
• comparing outputs of said at least two groups of wires under test with said at least one output response analyzer;
• and
• generating a first test result indication,
• whereby said field programmable gate array is completely tested.

An apparatus for testing a field programmable gate array including programmable logic blocks and a programmable routing network comprising:

• a platform for supporting said field programmable gate array during testing;
• a controller in communication with said platform for (a) loading one of a plurality of test configurations in said field programmable gate array, said configuration including at least one test pattern generator, at least two groups of wires under test for propagating test patterns, and at least one output response analyzer for comparing said test patterns propagated along said at least two groups of wires under test, (b) for initiating the built-in self-test and (c) for receiving the subsequent results of the built-in self-test;
• and
• a memory in communication with said controller for storing the plurality of test configurations and an operational field programmable gate array configuration.

A field programmable gate array including programmable logic blocks and a programmable routing configured to comprise:

• at least one test pattern generator;
• at least two groups of wires under test for propagating test patterns;
• at least one output response analyzers for comparing said test patterns propagated along said at least two groups of wires under test;
• and
• whereby said programmable routing network at said field programmable gate array is tested.