ECU Debugging

ECU software debugging is the process of finding and resolving errors, or "bugs," within the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) software. This is a critical task for ECU developers, allowing them to interactively step through code, inspect memory, and analyze the software's behavior in real-time.

A common challenge during development is that the measurement and calibration tool (like ETAS INCA) and a software debugger (from vendors like Lauterbach or PLS) both require access to the same physical debug interface on the microcontroller (µC). The M-ETK provides a solution to this by enabling parallel access.

This is accomplished through a method called arbitration, where the M-ETK manages access to the shared µC debug port.

Software Debug Arbitration

This is a software-based solution for enabling parallel debugging. In this mode, the third-party debugger communicates with the ECU indirectly via an XCP backend provided by the debugger tool supplier. The M-ETK, in conjunction with INCA, arbitrates the access to the debug interface. This allows you to run your debugger and measurement tools at the same time through a single M-ETK connection.

Key Features:

  • ETAS standard solution supported by the M-ETK.

  • Enables simultaneous use of INCA and a debugger.

  • Requires an XCP backend from the debugger tool supplier.

  • Software Debugging over XCP, Version 1.1.0.