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Generating Random Test Patterns

This page describes a means of generating random patterns by the use of a linear feedback shift register LFSR. LFSR can generate pseudo-random bit patterns, and are often used in self-test circuits. In this example, we use an LFSR to trigger a rule condition in a probabilistic manner. 

...
   // a LFSR for random patterns 
   LFSR#( Bit#(8) ) lfsr <- mkLFSR_8 i_rand ;
...
   // keep counting  
   rule counting ; 
     count <= count + 1;
     lfsr.next ;            // update the lfsr value
   endrule 
  
   // action2 occurs at random time
   // lfsr ranges from 1 to 256 so probability can be adjusted
   rule action2 (lfsr.value() > 128 ) ; 
     mypush.go( count[3:0] );
     $display( "%t -- action2 %h", $time, count[3:0] ) ;   
  endrule

Other LFSR library functions are described in the BSV Reference Manual