Multi-state logic analyzer integral to a microprocessor

A method for analyzing signals internal to a VLSI circuit comprising:

• integrating a logic analyzer into the circuitry of the VLSI circuit;
• matching at least one programmable trigger event to logic circuit event data in the logic analyzer;
• counting a plurality of programmable trigger events;
• storing the event data in response to at least one match of the at least one programmable trigger event, wherein each match defines at least one programmable condition;
• defining a plurality of sequential states of the logic analyzer by matching at least one programmable condition with each state;
• and
• transitioning the state of the logic analyzer to at least one previous state when at least one programmable condition has not been matched within a programmable period of time.

A microchip containing a plurality of logic circuits having an integral logic analyzer comprising:

• programmable trace data control logic for controlling writing of event data to a trace array;
• programmable condition select logic coupled to the trace data control logic for controlling the trace data control logic in response to at least one match of at least one programmable condition and for changing logic transitions from an initial state to at least one subsequent state in response to the at least one match of the at least one programmable condition;
• and
• input and output logic coupled to the trace data control logic, the trace array, and the condition select logic, wherein the condition select logic transitions from one of the at least one subsequent states to at least one previous state if the at least one match of the at least one programmable condition does not occur within a programmable period of time.