In previous editions of the “Tell me about” series, we have discussed in detail the various test strategies and explained how JTAG/boundary-scan works at a device and board level.

However, both hardware and software are needed to control the embedded boundary-scan logic and drive data through the Test Access Port (TAP) and boundary-scan chains. This logic, accessed through the JTAG interface, allows existing test and measurement systems to be enhanced with extra capabilities to improve quality
control and save time in test development and the diagnosis of faults.

Since a broad range of software tools is available, each with different capabilities and performance, you can configure an optimal JTAG/boundary-scan solution for your needs. In this “Tell me about” edition we will examine the various JTAG/Boundaryscan software tools and their capabilities.