Corner-case tests

Corner-case tests are one of the example tools used to build, run, and debug the Transmeta Crusoe microprocessor. They are listed alongside reference x86 simulators, a fast simulator and fault-isolating debugger (used to run the Code Morphing Software both during hardware development and after hardware was on sale to the public), a highly automated test farm, and test generators.

Role in the Crusoe toolchain

Crusoe's only directly executed programs are simulators called Code Morphing Software (CMS). Because CMS is complex — supporting user and kernel modes, x86 segmentation and stack floating-point, optimization passes for both fast CMS execution and fast generated-code execution, and multiple implementation strategies for user, system, and BIOS code — exercising unusual or boundary conditions is a significant concern. Corner-case tests sit alongside reference x86 simulators as a way to stress these less-common scenarios.

Relationship to the automated test farm

Corner-case tests are used together with a highly automated test farm that runs alongside test generators. The test farm provides the automation harness, while corner-case tests supply targeted inputs that probe uncommon or error-prone behaviors.

See also

• Automated test farm — the automated harness that runs corner-case tests along with other generated tests.