Introduction / Context:
Good partitioning determines how modules fit together, what each is responsible for, and where interfaces lie. Without a correct mental model of the overall device behavior, partitions and interfaces can be ill-chosen, causing integration defects later.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- We are planning module boundaries in an HDL-based design.
- Requirements include functionality, performance, and constraints.
- Interfaces depend on what information must flow and when.
Concept / Approach:
Understanding the end-to-end operation informs which functions belong together and which should be decoupled. Once behavior is clear, you can define success criteria, enumerate inputs/outputs, and characterize the signals. The order matters: behavior first, then details flow naturally.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Study requirements and produce a behavioral description of the full device.Identify natural functional groupings (e.g., acquisition, processing, control, display).Define module responsibilities and timing relationships.Derive interfaces, name signals, and document acceptance criteria.
Verification / Alternative check:
Architecture reviews cross-check that partitions trace to behaviors and requirements, reducing inter-module coupling.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
define successful completion: Important, but depends on an understood behavior to be meaningful.know the nature of all the interconnecting signals: Signal definitions follow from behavioral decomposition.name each input and output: Naming is documentation; it presupposes you know what the device must do.
Common Pitfalls:
Partitioning prematurely around assumed IP or tool constraints rather than functionality.Under-specifying interfaces, causing timing or protocol mismatches later.
Final Answer:
fully understand how the device should operate
Discussion & Comments