The MIPI Alliance has released MIPI SPP v2.0, which introduces the TinySSP protocol for use in high-latency, low-bandwidth interfaces like MIPI I3C. The Alliance has also made nine debug and trace specifications publicly available for download.

MIPI SPP v2.0 replaces debug interfaces between a target and debug test systems, abstracting the interface with address-mapped read-and-write transactions that provide access to a target device’s memory agents. TinySPP reduces the data transfer and overhead of debug and test communicates by using a minimum packet length of just 4 bytes (versus 16 bytes), a byte field of 7 bits, and an addressing system that reduces 64- or 32-bit addresses to 6-bit, where possible.

SPP v2.0 also defines packetized JTAG messaging, which reduces the overhead of JTAG state changes. New opcodes also in FulSPP and TinySPP remove the need for bit-banging. There is also the ability to use a single command to set up polling loops, improving performance for high-latency interfaces.

The publication of these and other specs provides developers with a set of standardized, layered debugging interfaces and protocols. This eliminates the need for dedicated debug and test tools.

The open access specifications include MIPI’s:

• SneakPeek Protocol (MIPI SPP) v2.0 – Debug and test protocol that includes TinySPP for high-latency, low-bandwidth interfaces
• System Software-Trace (MIPI SyS-T) – Universal data format for transmitting software debug and trace information
• Narrow Interface for Debug and Test (MIPI NIDnT) – Enables the use of functional ports for debugging/testing finished products
• System Trace Protocol (MIPI STP) – Application-specific protocol for trace functions
• Trace Wrapper Protocol (MIPI TWP) – Protocol that combines multiple source trace streams into one
• High-Speed Trace Interface (MIPI HTI) – Exports trace data
• Parallel Trace Interface (MIPIPTI) – Exports trace data
• Gigabit Debug for USB (MIPI GbD USB) – Enables SPP and TWP protocols over USB sockets
• Gigabit Debug for IP Sockets (MIPI GbD IPS) – Enables SPP and TWP protocols over IP sockets

MIPI’s software specifications are also available, and provide a standard approach to loading drivers for different components.

For more information visit mipi.org.