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== Software Framework
== Software Framework
 
 
To make actual use of the NEORV32 processor, the project comes with a complete software eco-system. This
To make actual use of the NEORV32 processor, the project comes with a complete software ecosystem. This
ecosystem is based on the RISC-V port of the GCC GNU Compiler Collection and consists of the following elementary parts:
ecosystem is based on the RISC-V port of the GCC GNU Compiler Collection and consists of the following elementary parts:
 
 
 
* <<_compiler_toolchain>>
 
* <<_core_libraries>>
 
* <<_application_makefile>>
 
* <<_executable_image_format>>
 
** <<_linker_script>>
 
** <<_ram_layout>>
 
** <<_c_standard_library>>
 
** <<_start_up_code_crt0>>
 
* <<_bootloader>>
 
* <<_neorv32_runtime_environment>>
 
 
 
A summarizing list of the most important elements of the software framework and their according
 
files and folders is shown below:
 
 
[cols="<6,<4"]
[cols="<6,<4"]
[grid="none"]
[grid="none"]
|=======================
|=======================
| Application/bootloader start-up code | `sw/common/crt0.S`
| Application start-up code               | `sw/common/crt0.S`
| Application/bootloader linker script | `sw/common/neorv32.ld`
| Application linker script               | `sw/common/neorv32.ld`
| Core hardware driver libraries | `sw/lib/include/` & `sw/lib/source/`
| Core hardware driver libraries ("HAL")  | `sw/lib/include/` & `sw/lib/source/`
| Central makefile | `sw/common/common.mk`
| Central application makefile            | `sw/common/common.mk`
| Auxiliary tool for generating NEORV32 executables | `sw/image_gen/`
| Tool for generating NEORV32 executables | `sw/image_gen/`
| Default bootloader | `sw/bootloader/bootloader.c`
| Default bootloader | `sw/bootloader/bootloader.c`
 
| Example programs                        | `sw/example`
|=======================
|=======================
 
 
Last but not least, the NEORV32 ecosystem provides some example programs for testing the hardware, for
.Software Documentation
illustrating the usage of peripherals and for general getting in touch with the project (`sw/example`).
[TIP]
 
All core libraries and example programs are highly documented using **Doxygen**.
 
See section <>.
 
The documentation is automatically built and deployed to GitHub pages and is available online
 
at https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/sw/files.html .
 
 
 
 
 
 
// ####################################################################################################################
// ####################################################################################################################
:sectnums:
:sectnums:
=== Compiler Toolchain
=== Compiler Toolchain
 
 
The toolchain for this project is based on the free RISC-V GCC-port. You can find the compiler sources and
The toolchain for this project is based on the free RISC-V GCC-port. You can find the compiler sources and
build instructions on the official RISC-V GNU toolchain GitHub page: https://github.com/riscv/riscv-gnutoolchain.
build instructions on the official RISC-V GNU toolchain GitHub page: https://github.com/riscv/riscv-gnutoolchain.
 
 
The NEORV32 implements a 32-bit base integer architecture (`rv32i`) and a 32-bit integer and soft-float ABI
The NEORV32 implements a 32-bit RISC-V architecture and uses a 32-bit integer and soft-float ABI by default.
(ilp32), so make sure you build an according toolchain.
Make sure the toolchain / toolchain build is configured accordingly.
 
 
 
* MARCH = `rv32i`
 
* MABI = `ilp32`
 
 
Alternatively, you can download my prebuilt `rv32i/e` toolchains for 64-bit x86 Linux from: https://github.com/stnolting/riscv-gcc-prebuilt
Alternatively, you can download my prebuilt `rv32i/e` toolchains for 64-bit x86 Linux from: https://github.com/stnolting/riscv-gcc-prebuilt
 
 
The default toolchain prefix used by the project's makefiles is (can be changed in the makefiles): **`riscv32-unknown-elf`**
The default toolchain prefix used by the project's makefiles is **`riscv32-unknown-elf`**, which can be changes
 
using makefile flags at any time.
 
 
[TIP]
[TIP]
More information regarding the toolchain (building from scratch or downloading the prebuilt ones)
More information regarding the toolchain (building from scratch or downloading the prebuilt ones)
can be found in the user guides' section https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_software_toolchain_setup[Software Toolchain Setup].
can be found in the user guides' section https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_software_toolchain_setup[Software Toolchain Setup].
 
 
Line 41... Line 66...
 
 
// ####################################################################################################################
// ####################################################################################################################
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=== Core Libraries
=== Core Libraries
 
 
The NEORV32 project provides a set of C libraries that allows an easy usage of the processor/CPU features.
The NEORV32 project provides a set of C libraries that allows an easy usage of the processor/CPU features
Just include the main NEORV32 library file in your application's source file(s):
(also called "HAL" - hardware abstraction layer). All driver and runtime-related files are located in
 
`sw/lib`. These are automatically included and linked by adding the following _include statement_:
 
 
[source,c]
[source,c]
----
----
#include 
#include  // add NEORV32 HAL and runtime libraries
----
----
 
 
[TIP]
 
A CMSIS-SVD-compatible **System View Description (SVD)** file including all peripherals is available in `sw/svd`.
 
 
 
Together with the makefile, this will automatically include all the processor's header files located in
 
`sw/lib/include` into your application. The actual source files of the core libraries are located in
 
`sw/lib/source` and are automatically included into the source list of your software project. The following
 
files are currently part of the NEORV32 core library:
 
 
 
[cols="<3,<4,<8"]
[cols="<3,<4,<8"]
[options="header",grid="rows"]
[options="header",grid="rows"]
|=======================
|=======================
| C source file | C header file | Description
| C source file | C header file | Description
| -                  | `neorv32.h`            | main NEORV32 definitions and library file
| -                  | `neorv32.h`            | main NEORV32 definitions and library file
| `neorv32_cfs.c`    | `neorv32_cfs.h`        | HW driver (stub)footnote:[This driver file only represents a stub, since the real CFS drivers are defined by the actual CFS implementation.] functions for the custom functions subsystem
| `neorv32_cfs.c`     | `neorv32_cfs.h`        | HW driver (stubs) functions for the custom functions subsystem
 
footnote:[This driver file only represents a stub, since the real CFS drivers are defined by the actual CFS implementation.]
| `neorv32_cpu.c`    | `neorv32_cpu.h`        | HW driver functions for the NEORV32 **CPU**
| `neorv32_cpu.c`    | `neorv32_cpu.h`        | HW driver functions for the NEORV32 **CPU**
 
| `neorv32_cpu_cfu.c` | `neorv32_cpu_cfu.h`    | HW driver functions for the NEORV32 **CFU** (custom instructions)
| `neorv32_gpio.c`   | `neorv32_gpio.h`       | HW driver functions for the **GPIO**
| `neorv32_gpio.c`   | `neorv32_gpio.h`       | HW driver functions for the **GPIO**
| `neorv32_gptmr.c`  | `neorv32_gptmr.h`      | HW driver functions for the **GPTRM**
| `neorv32_gptmr.c`  | `neorv32_gptmr.h`      | HW driver functions for the **GPTRM**
| -                  | `neorv32_intrinsics.h` | macros for (custom) intrinsics/instructions
| -                   | `neorv32_intrinsics.h` | macros for custom intrinsics & instructions
| `neorv32_mtime.c`  | `neorv32_mtime.h`      | HW driver functions for the **MTIME**
| `neorv32_mtime.c`  | `neorv32_mtime.h`      | HW driver functions for the **MTIME**
| `neorv32_neoled.c` | `neorv32_neoled.h`     | HW driver functions for the **NEOLED**
| `neorv32_neoled.c` | `neorv32_neoled.h`     | HW driver functions for the **NEOLED**
| `neorv32_pwm.c`    | `neorv32_pwm.h`        | HW driver functions for the **PWM**
| `neorv32_pwm.c`    | `neorv32_pwm.h`        | HW driver functions for the **PWM**
| `neorv32_rte.c`    | `neorv32_rte.h`        | NEORV32 **runtime environment** and helpers
| `neorv32_rte.c`     | `neorv32_rte.h`        | NEORV32 **runtime environment** and helper functions
| `neorv32_slink.c`  | `neorv32_slink.h`      | HW driver functions for the **SLINK**
| `neorv32_slink.c`  | `neorv32_slink.h`      | HW driver functions for the **SLINK**
| `neorv32_spi.c`    | `neorv32_spi.h`        | HW driver functions for the **SPI**
| `neorv32_spi.c`    | `neorv32_spi.h`        | HW driver functions for the **SPI**
| `neorv32_trng.c`   | `neorv32_trng.h`       | HW driver functions for the **TRNG**
| `neorv32_trng.c`   | `neorv32_trng.h`       | HW driver functions for the **TRNG**
| `neorv32_twi.c`    | `neorv32_twi.h`        | HW driver functions for the **TWI**
| `neorv32_twi.c`    | `neorv32_twi.h`        | HW driver functions for the **TWI**
| `neorv32_uart.c`   | `neorv32_uart.h`       | HW driver functions for the **UART0** and **UART1**
| `neorv32_uart.c`   | `neorv32_uart.h`       | HW driver functions for the **UART0** and **UART1**
| `neorv32_wdt.c`    | `neorv32_wdt.h`        | HW driver functions for the **WDT**
| `neorv32_wdt.c`    | `neorv32_wdt.h`        | HW driver functions for the **WDT**
| `neorv32_xip.c`    | `neorv32_xip.h`        | HW driver functions for the **XIP**
| `neorv32_xip.c`    | `neorv32_xip.h`        | HW driver functions for the **XIP**
| `neorv32_xirq.c`   | `neorv32_xirq.h`       | HW driver functions for the **XIRQ**
| `neorv32_xirq.c`   | `neorv32_xirq.h`       | HW driver functions for the **XIRQ**
 
| `syscalls.c`        | -                      | newlib system calls
|=======================
|=======================
 
 
.Documentation
 
[TIP]
[TIP]
All core library software sources are highly documented using _doxygen_. See section <>.
A CMSIS-SVD-compatible **System View Description (SVD)** file including all peripherals is available in `sw/svd`.
The documentation is automatically built and deployed to GitHub pages by the CI workflow (:https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/sw/files.html).
`sw/lib/include`. Currently, the following library files are available:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
// ####################################################################################################################
// ####################################################################################################################
:sectnums:
:sectnums:
=== Application Makefile
=== Application Makefile
 
 
Application compilation is based on a single, centralized **GNU makefiles** `sw/common/common.mk`. Each project in the
Application compilation is based on a single, centralized **GNU makefiles** `sw/common/common.mk`. Each project in the
`sw/example` folder features a makefile that just includes this central makefile. When creating a new project, copy an existing project folder or
`sw/example` folder features a makefile that just includes this central makefile. When creating a new project copy an
at least the makefile to your new project folder. I suggest to create new projects also in `sw/example` to keep
existing project folder or at least the makefile to the new project folder. It is suggested to create new projects also
the file dependencies. Of course, these dependencies can be manually configured via makefiles variables
in `sw/example` to keep the file dependencies. However, these dependencies can be manually configured via makefiles
when your project is located somewhere else.
variables when the new project is located somewhere else.
 
 
[NOTE]
[NOTE]
Before you can use the makefiles, you need to install the RISC-V GCC toolchain. Also, you have to add the
Before the makefile can be used to compile applications, the RISC-V GCC toolchain needs to be installed. Furthermore,
installation folder of the compiler to your system's `PATH` variable. More information can be found in
the `bin` folder of the compiler needs to be added to the system's `PATH` variable. More information can be found in
https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_software_toolchain_setup[User Guide: Software Toolchain Setup].
https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_software_toolchain_setup[User Guide: Software Toolchain Setup].
 
 
The makefile is invoked by simply executing make in your console:
The makefile is invoked by simply executing `make` in the console. For example:
 
 
[source,bash]
[source,bash]
----
----
neorv32/sw/example/blink_led$ make
neorv32/sw/example/blink_led$ make
----
----
Line 154... Line 173...
 
 
 
 
:sectnums:
:sectnums:
==== Configuration
==== Configuration
 
 
The compilation flow is configured via variables right at the beginning of the **central**
The compilation flow is configured via variables right at the beginning of the central
makefile (`sw/common/common.mk`):
makefile (`sw/common/common.mk`):
 
 
[TIP]
[TIP]
The makefile configuration variables can be (re-)defined directly when invoking the makefile. For
The makefile configuration variables can be overridden or extended directly when invoking the makefile. For
example via `$ make MARCH=rv32ic clean_all exe`. You can also make project-specific definitions
example `$ make MARCH=rv32ic clean_all exe` overrides the default `MARCH` variable definitions.
of all variables inside the project's actual makefile (e.g., `sw/example/blink_led/makefile`).
Permanent modifications/definitions can be made in the project-local makefile
 
(e.g., `sw/example/blink_led/makefile`).
 
 
 
.Default Makefile Configuration
[source,makefile]
[source,makefile]
----
----
# *****************************************************************************
# *****************************************************************************
# USER CONFIGURATION
# USER CONFIGURATION
# *****************************************************************************
# *****************************************************************************
Line 188... Line 209...
# Relative or absolute path to the NEORV32 home folder
# Relative or absolute path to the NEORV32 home folder
NEORV32_HOME ?= ../../..
NEORV32_HOME ?= ../../..
# *****************************************************************************
# *****************************************************************************
----
----
 
 
 
.Variables Description
[cols="<3,<10"]
[cols="<3,<10"]
[grid="none"]
[grid="none"]
|=======================
|=======================
| _APP_SRC_         | The source files of the application (`*.c`, `*.cpp`, `*.S` and `*.s` files are allowed; file of these types in the project folder are automatically added via wildcards). Additional files can be added; separated by white spaces
| `APP_SRC`      | The source files of the application (`*.c`, `*.cpp`, `*.S` and `*.s` files are allowed;
| _APP_INC_         | Include file folders; separated by white spaces; must be defined with `-I` prefix
files of these types in the project folder are automatically added via wild cards). Additional files can be added separated by white spaces
| _ASM_INC_         | Include file folders that are used only for the assembly source files (`*.S`/`*.s`).
| `APP_INC`      | Include file folders; separated by white spaces; must be defined with `-I` prefix
| _EFFORT_          | Optimization level, optimize for size (`-Os`) is default; legal values: `-O0`, `-O1`, `-O2`, `-O3`, `-Os`
| `ASM_INC`      | Include file folders that are used only for the assembly source files (`*.S`/`*.s`).
| _RISCV_PREFIX_    | The toolchain prefix to be used; follows the naming convention "architecture-vendor-output-"
| `EFFORT`       | Optimization level, optimize for size (`-Os`) is default; legal values: `-O0`, `-O1`, `-O2`, `-O3`, `-Os`, `-Ofast`, ...
| _MARCH_           | The targeted RISC-V architecture/ISA. Only `rv32` is supported by the NEORV32. Enable compiler support of optional CPU extension by adding the according extension letter (e.g. `rv32im` for _M_ CPU extension). See https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_enabling_risc_v_cpu_extensions[User Guide: Enabling RISC-V CPU Extensions] for more information.
| `RISCV_PREFIX` | The toolchain prefix to be used; follows the triplet naming convention `[architecture]-[host_system]-[output]-...`
| _MABI_            | The default 32-bit integer ABI.
| `MARCH`        | The targeted RISC-V architecture/ISA; enable compiler support of optional CPU extension by adding the according extension
| _USER_FLAGS_      | Additional flags that will be forwarded to the compiler tools
name (e.g. `rv32im` for `M` CPU extension; see https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_enabling_risc_v_cpu_extensions[User Guide: Enabling RISC-V CPU Extensions]
| _NEORV32_HOME_    | Relative or absolute path to the NEORV32 project home folder. Adapt this if the makefile/project is not in the project's `sw/example folder`.
for more information
 
| `MABI`         | Application binary interface (default: 32-bit integer ABI `ilp32`)
 
| `USER_FLAGS`   | Additional flags that will be forwarded to the compiler tools
 
| `NEORV32_HOME` | Relative or absolute path to the NEORV32 project home folder; adapt this if the makefile/project is not in the project's
 
default `sw/example` folder
|=======================
|=======================
 
 
:sectnums:
:sectnums:
==== Default Compiler Flags
==== Default Compiler Flags
 
 
The following default compiler flags are used for compiling an application. These flags are defined via the
The following default compiler flags are used for compiling an application. These flags are defined via the
`CC_OPTS` variable. Custom flags can be appended via the `USER_FLAGS` variable to the `CC_OPTS` variable.
`CC_OPTS` variable. Custom flags can be _appended_ to it using the `USER_FLAGS` variable.
 
 
[cols="<3,<9"]
[cols="<3,<9"]
[grid="none"]
[grid="none"]
|=======================
|=======================
| `-Wall` | Enable all compiler warnings.
| `-Wall` | Enable all compiler warnings.
| `-ffunction-sections` | Put functions and data segment in independent sections. This allows a code optimization as dead code and unused data can be easily removed.
| `-ffunction-sections` | Put functions and data segment in independent sections. This allows a code optimization as dead code and unused data can be easily removed.
| `-nostartfiles` | Do not use the default start code. The makefiles use the NEORV32-specific start-up code instead (`sw/common/crt0.S`).
| `-nostartfiles`          | Do not use the default start code. Instead, use the NEORV32-specific start-up code (`sw/common/crt0.S`).
| `-Wl,--gc-sections` | Make the linker perform dead code elimination.
| `-Wl,--gc-sections` | Make the linker perform dead code elimination.
| `-lm` | Include/link with `math.h`.
| `-lm` | Include/link with `math.h`.
| `-lc` | Search for the standard C library when linking.
| `-lc` | Search for the standard C library when linking.
| `-lgcc` | Make sure we have no unresolved references to internal GCC library subroutines.
| `-lgcc` | Make sure we have no unresolved references to internal GCC library subroutines.
| `-mno-fdiv` | Use built-in software functions for floating-point divisions and square roots (since the according instructions are not supported yet).
| `-mno-fdiv` | Use built-in software functions for floating-point divisions and square roots (since the according instructions are not supported yet).
Line 269... Line 295...
  iodev (rw) : ORIGIN = 0xFFFFFE00, LENGTH = 512
  iodev (rw) : ORIGIN = 0xFFFFFE00, LENGTH = 512
}
}
----
----
 
 
Each memory section provides a _base address_ `ORIGIN` and a _size_ `LENGTH`. The base address and size of the `iodev` section is
Each memory section provides a _base address_ `ORIGIN` and a _size_ `LENGTH`. The base address and size of the `iodev` section is
fixed and must not be altered. The base addresses and sizes of the `ram` and `rom` regions correspond to the total available instruction
fixed and should not be altered. The base addresses and sizes of the `ram` and `rom` regions correspond to the total available instruction
and data memory address space (see section <<_address_space_layout>>).
and data memory address space (see section <<_address_space_layout>>) as defined in `rtl/core/neorv32_package.vhd`.
 
 
[IMPORTANT]
[IMPORTANT]
`ORIGIN` of the `ram` section has to be always identical to the processor's `dspace_base_c` hardware configuration. Additionally,
`ORIGIN` of the `ram` section has to be always identical to the processor's `dspace_base_c` hardware configuration. +
 
 +
`ORIGIN` of the `rom` section has to be always identical to the processor's `ispace_base_c` hardware configuration.
`ORIGIN` of the `rom` section has to be always identical to the processor's `ispace_base_c` hardware configuration.
 
 
The sizes of `ram` section has to be equal to the size of the **physical available data instruction memory**. For example, if the processor
 
setup only uses processor-internal DMEM (<<_mem_int_dmem_en>> = _true_ and no external data memory attached) the `LENGTH` parameter of
 
this memory section has to be equal to the size configured by the <<_mem_int_dmem_size>> generic.
 
 
 
The sizes of `rom` section is a little bit more complicated. The default linker script configuration assumes a _maximum_ of 2GB _logical_
The sizes of `rom` section is a little bit more complicated. The default linker script configuration assumes a _maximum_ of 2GB _logical_
memory space, which is also the default configuration of the processor's hardware instruction memory address space. This size _does not_ have
memory space, which is also the default configuration of the processor's hardware instruction memory address space. This size does not have
to reflect the _actual_ physical size of the instruction memory (internal IMEM and/or processor-external memory). It just provides a maximum
to reflect the _actual_ physical size of the instruction memory (internal IMEM and/or processor-external memory). It just provides a maximum
limit. When uploading new executable via the bootloader, the bootloader itself checks if sufficient _physical_ instruction memory is available.
limit. When uploading new executable via the bootloader, the bootloader itself checks if sufficient _physical_ instruction memory is available.
If a new executable is embedded right into the internal-IMEM the synthesis tool will check, if the configured instruction memory size
If a new executable is embedded right into the internal-IMEM the synthesis tool will check, if the configured instruction memory size
is sufficient (e.g., via the <<_mem_int_imem_size>> generic).
is sufficient (e.g., via the <<_mem_int_imem_size>> generic).
 
 
Line 295... Line 318...
 +
 +
The `ram` region also uses a conditional assignment (via the `make_bootloader` symbol) for `LENGTH`. When compiling the bootloader
The `ram` region also uses a conditional assignment (via the `make_bootloader` symbol) for `LENGTH`. When compiling the bootloader
(`make_bootloader` symbol is set) the generated bootloader will only use the _first_ 512 bytes of the data address space. This is
(`make_bootloader` symbol is set) the generated bootloader will only use the _first_ 512 bytes of the data address space. This is
a fall-back to ensure the bootloader can operate independently of the actual _physical_ data memory size.
a fall-back to ensure the bootloader can operate independently of the actual _physical_ data memory size.
 
 
The linker maps all the regions from the compiled object files into four final sections: `.text`, `.rodata`, `.data` and `.bss`.
The linker maps all the regions from the compiled object files into five final sections: `.text`, `.rodata`, `.data`, `.bss` and `.heap`.
These four regions contain everything required for the application to run:
These regions contain everything required for the application to run:
 
 
.Linker memory regions
.Linker memory regions
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[cols="<1,<9"]
[options="header",grid="rows"]
[options="header",grid="rows"]
|=======================
|=======================
| Region    | Description
| Region    | Description
| `.text`   | Executable instructions generated from the start-up code and all application sources.
| `.text`   | Executable instructions generated from the start-up code and all application sources.
| `.rodata` | Constants (like strings) from the application; also the initial data for initialized variables.
| `.rodata` | Constants (like strings) from the application; also the initial data for initialized variables.
| `.data`   | This section is required for the address generation of fixed (= global) variables only.
| `.data`   | This section is required for the address generation of fixed (= global) variables only.
| `.bss`    | This section is required for the address generation of dynamic memory constructs only.
| `.bss`    | This section is required for the address generation of dynamic memory constructs only.
 
| `.heap`   | This section is required for the address generation of dynamic memory constructs only.
|=======================
|=======================
 
 
The `.text` and `.rodata` sections are mapped to processor's instruction memory space and the `.data` and
The `.text` and `.rodata` sections are mapped to processor's instruction memory space and the `.data`,
`.bss` sections are mapped to the processor's data memory space. Finally, the `.text`, `.rodata` and `.data`
`.bss` and `heap` sections are mapped to the processor's data memory space. Finally, the `.text`, `.rodata` and `.data`
sections are extracted and concatenated into a single file `main.bin`.
sections are extracted and concatenated into a single file `main.bin`.
 
 
 
 
:sectnums:
:sectnums:
 
==== RAM Layout
 
 
 
The default NEORV32 linker script uses all of the defined RAM (linker script memory section `ram`) to create four areas.
 
Note that depending on the application some areas might not be existent at all.
 
 
 
.Default RAM Layout
 
image::ram_layout.png[400]
 
 
 
[start=1]
 
. **Constant data (`.data`)**: The constant data section is placed right at the beginning of the RAM. For example, this section
 
contains _explicitly initialized_ global variables. This section is initialized by the executable.
 
. **Dynamic data (`.bss`)**: The constant data section is followed by the dynamic data section, which contains _uninitialized_ data
 
like global variables without explicit initialization. This section is cleared by the start-up code `crt0.S`.
 
. **Heap (`.heap`)**: The heap is used for dynamic memory that is managed by functions like `malloc()` and `free()`. The heap
 
grows upwards. This section is not initialized at all.
 
. **Stack**: The stack starts at the very end of the RAM at address `ORIGIN(ram) + LENGTH(ram) - 4`. The stack grows downwards.
 
 
 
There is _no explicit limit_ for the maximum stack size as this is hard to check. However, a physical memory protection rule could
 
be used to configure a maximum size by adding a "protection area" between stack and heap (a PMP region without any access rights).
 
 
 
The maximum size of the heap is defined by the linker script's `__heap_size` symbol. This symbol can be overridden at any time.
 
By default, the maximum heap size is 1/4 of the total RAM size.
 
 
 
.Heap-Stack Collisions
 
[WARNING]
 
Take care when using dynamic memory to avoid collision of the heap and stack memory areas. There is no compile-time protection
 
mechanism available as the actual heap and stack size are defined by _runtime_ data. Also beware of fragmentation when
 
using dynamic memory allocation.
 
 
 
 
 
:sectnums:
 
==== C Standard Library
 
 
 
.Constructors and Deconstructors
 
[IMPORTANT]
 
The NEORV32 processor is an embedded system intended for running bare-metal or RTOS applications. To simplify this setup
 
explicit constructors and deconstructors are not supported by default. However, a minimal "deconstructor-alike" support is
 
provided by the <<_after_main_handler>>.
 
 
 
The NEORV32 is a processor for _embedded_ applications. Hence, it is not capable of running desktop OSs like Linux
 
(at least not without emulation). Hence, the software framework relies on a "bare-metal" setup that uses **newlib**
 
as default C standard library.
 
 
 
.RTOS Support
 
[NOTE]
 
The NEORV32 CPU and processor **do support** embedded RTOS like FreeRTOS and Zephyr. See the User guide section
 
https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_zephyr_rtos_support[Zephyr RTOS Support] and
 
https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_freertos_support[FreeRTOS Support]
 
for more information.
 
 
 
Newlib provides stubs for common "system calls" (like file handling and standard input/output) that are used by other
 
C libraries like `stdio`. These stubs are available in `sw/source/syscalls.c` and were adapted for the NEORV32 processor.
 
 
 
.Standard Console(s)
 
[NOTE]
 
 
 
is used to implement all the standard input, output and error consoles (`STDIN`, `STDOUT` and `STDERR`).
 
 
 
.Newlib Test/Demo Program
 
[TIP]
 
A simple test and demo program, which uses some of newlib's core functions (like `malloc`/`free` and `read`/`write`)
 
is available in `sw/example_newlib_demo`
 
 
 
 
 
:sectnums:
==== Executable Image Generator
==== Executable Image Generator
 
 
The `main.bin` file is packed by the NEORV32 image generator (`sw/image_gen`) to generate the final executable file.
The `main.bin` file is packed by the NEORV32 image generator (`sw/image_gen`) to generate the final executable file.
 
 
[NOTE]
[NOTE]
Line 382... Line 471...
The function has exactly one argument (`return_code`) that provides the _return value_ of the application's main function.
The function has exactly one argument (`return_code`) that provides the _return value_ of the application's main function.
For instance, this variable contains _-1_ if the main function returned with `return -1;`. The return value of the
For instance, this variable contains _-1_ if the main function returned with `return -1;`. The return value of the
`__neorv32_crt0_after_main` function is irrelevant as there is no further "software instance" executed afterwards that can check this.
`__neorv32_crt0_after_main` function is irrelevant as there is no further "software instance" executed afterwards that can check this.
However, the on-chip debugger could still evaluate the return value of the after-main handler.
However, the on-chip debugger could still evaluate the return value of the after-main handler.
 
 
A simple `printf` can be used to inform the user when the application's main function returns
A simple UARt output can be used to inform the user when the application's main function returns
(this example assumes that UART0 has been already properly configured in the actual application):
(this example assumes that UART0 has been already properly configured in the actual application):
 
 
.After-main handler - example
.After-main handler - simple example
[source,c]
[source,c]
----
----
int __neorv32_crt0_after_main(int32_t return_code) {
int __neorv32_crt0_after_main(int32_t return_code) {
 
 
  neorv32_uart0_printf("Main returned with code: %i\n", return_code);
  neorv32_uart0_printf("\n main function returned with exit code %i. \n", return_code); <1>
  return 0;
  return 0;
}
}
----
----
 
<1> Use `` here to make clear this is a message comes from the runtime environment.
 
 
 
 
 
 
// ####################################################################################################################
// ####################################################################################################################
:sectnums:
 
=== Bootloader
 
 
 
[NOTE]
 
This section illustrated the **default** bootloader from the repository. The bootloader can be customized
 
to target application-specific scenarios. See User Guide section
 
https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_customizing_the_internal_bootloader[Customizing the Internal Bootloader]
 
for more information.
 
 
 
The default NEORV32 bootloader (source code `sw/bootloader/bootloader.c`) provides a build-in firmware that
 
allows to upload new application executables via UART at every time and to optionally store/boot them to/from
 
an external SPI flash. It features a simple "automatic boot" feature that will try to fetch an executable
 
from SPI flash if there is _no_ UART user interaction. This allows to build processor setup with
 
non-volatile application storage, which can be updated at any time.
 
 
 
The bootloader is only implemented if the <<_int_bootloader_en>> generic is _true_. This will
 
select the <<_indirect_boot>> boot configuration.
 
 
 
.Hardware requirements of the _default_ NEORV32 bootloader
include::software_bootloader.adoc[]
[IMPORTANT]
 
**REQUIRED**: The bootloader requires the CSR access CPU extension (<<_cpu_extension_riscv_zicsr>> generic is _true_)
 
and at least 512 bytes of data memory (processor-internal DMEM or external DMEM). +
 
 +
 
_RECOMMENDED_: For user interaction via UART (like uploading executables) the primary UART (UART0) has to be
 
implemented (<<_io_uart0_en>> generic is _true_). Without UART the bootloader does not make much sense. However, auto-boot
 
via SPI is still supported but the bootloader should be customized (see User Guide) for this purpose. +
 
 +
 
_OPTIONAL_: The default bootloader uses bit 0 of the GPIO output port as "heart beat" and status LED if the
 
GPIO controller is implemented (<<_io_gpio_en>> generic is _true_). +
 
 +
 
_OPTIONAL_: The MTIME machine timer (<<_io_mtime_en>> generic is _true_) and the SPI controller
 
(<<_io_spi_en>> generic is _true_) are required in order to use the bootloader's auto-boot feature
 
(automatic boot from external SPI flash if there is no user interaction via UART).
 
 
 
To interact with the bootloader, connect the primary UART (UART0) signals (`uart0_txd_o` and
 
`uart0_rxd_o`) of the processor's top entity via a serial port (-adapter) to your computer (hardware flow control is
 
not used so the according interface signals can be ignored.), configure your
 
terminal program using the following settings and perform a reset of the processor.
 
 
 
Terminal console settings (`19200-8-N-1`):
 
 
 
* 19200 Baud
 
* 8 data bits
 
* no parity bit
 
* 1 stop bit
 
* newline on `\r\n` (carriage return, newline)
 
* no transfer protocol / control flow protocol - just the raw byte stuff
 
 
 
[IMPORTANT]
 
_Any_ terminal program that can connect to a serial port should work. However, make sure the program
 
can transfer data in _raw_ byte mode without any protocol overhead around it. Some terminal programs struggle with
 
transmitting files larger than 4kB (see https://github.com/stnolting/neorv32/pull/215). Try a different program
 
if uploading a binary does not work (terminal stall).
 
 
 
The bootloader uses the LSB of the top entity's `gpio_o` output port as high-active status LED (all other
 
output pin are set to low level by the bootloader). After reset, this LED will start blinking at ~2Hz and the
 
following intro screen should show up in your terminal:
 
 
 
[source]
 
----
 
<< NEORV32 Bootloader >>
 
 
 
BLDV: Mar 23 2021
 
HWV:  0x01050208
 
CLK:  0x05F5E100
 
MISA: 0x40901105
 
CPU:  0x00000023
 
SOC:  0x0EFF0037
 
IMEM: 0x00004000 bytes @ 0x00000000
 
DMEM: 0x00002000 bytes @ 0x80000000
 
 
 
Autoboot in 8s. Press key to abort.
 
----
 
 
 
This start-up screen also gives some brief information about the bootloader and several system configuration parameters:
 
 
 
[cols="<2,<15"]
 
[grid="none"]
 
|=======================
 
| `BLDV` | Bootloader version (built date).
 
| `HWV`  | Processor hardware version (from the `mimpid` CSR) in BCD format (example: `0x01040606` = v1.4.6.6).
 
| `CLK`  | Processor clock speed in Hz (via the SYSINFO module, from the _CLOCK_FREQUENCY_ generic).
 
| `MISA` | CPU extensions (from the `misa` CSR).
 
| `CPU`  | CPU sub-extensions (via the `CPU` register in the SYSINFO module)
 
| `SOC`  | Processor configuration (via the `SOC` register in the SYSINFO module / from the IO_* and MEM_* configuration generics).
 
| `IMEM` | IMEM memory base address and size in byte (from the _MEM_INT_IMEM_SIZE_ generic).
 
| `DMEM` | DMEM memory base address and size in byte (from the _MEM_INT_DMEM_SIZE_ generic).
 
|=======================
 
 
 
Now you have 8 seconds to press any key. Otherwise, the bootloader starts the auto boot sequence. When
 
you press any key within the 8 seconds, the actual bootloader user console starts:
 
 
 
[source]
 
----
 
<< NEORV32 Bootloader >>
 
 
 
BLDV: Mar 23 2021
 
HWV:  0x01050208
 
CLK:  0x05F5E100
 
USER: 0x10000DE0
 
MISA: 0x40901105
 
CPU:  0x00000023
 
SOC:  0x0EFF0037
 
IMEM: 0x00004000 bytes @ 0x00000000
 
DMEM: 0x00002000 bytes @ 0x80000000
 
 
 
Autoboot in 8s. Press key to abort.
 
Aborted.
 
 
 
Available commands:
 
h: Help
 
r: Restart
 
u: Upload
 
s: Store to flash
 
l: Load from flash
 
e: Execute
 
CMD:>
 
----
 
 
 
The auto-boot countdown is stopped and now you can enter a command from the list to perform the
 
corresponding operation:
 
 
 
* `h`: Show the help text (again)
 
* `r`: Restart the bootloader and the auto-boot sequence
 
* `u`: Upload new program executable (`neorv32_exe.bin`) via UART into the instruction memory
 
* `s`: Store executable to SPI flash at `spi_csn_o(0)` (little-endian byte order)
 
* `l`: Load executable from SPI flash at `spi_csn_o(0)` (little-endian byte order)
 
* `e`: Start the application, which is currently stored in the instruction memory (IMEM)
 
 
 
A new executable can be uploaded via UART by executing the `u` command. After that, the executable can be directly
 
executed via the `e` command. To store the recently uploaded executable to an attached SPI flash press `s`. To
 
directly load an executable from the SPI flash press `l`. The bootloader and the auto-boot sequence can be
 
manually restarted via the `r` command.
 
 
 
[TIP]
 
The CPU is in machine level privilege mode after reset. When the bootloader boots an application,
 
this application is also started in machine level privilege mode.
 
 
 
[TIP]
 
For detailed information on using an SPI flash for application storage see User Guide section
 
https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/ug/#_programming_an_external_spi_flash_via_the_bootloader[Programming an External SPI Flash via the Bootloader].
 
 
 
 
 
:sectnums:
 
==== Auto Boot Sequence
 
When you reset the NEORV32 processor, the bootloader waits 8 seconds for a UART console input before it
 
starts the automatic boot sequence. This sequence tries to fetch a valid boot image from the external SPI
 
flash, connected to SPI chip select `spi_csn_o(0)`. If a valid boot image is found that can be successfully
 
transferred into the instruction memory, it is automatically started. If no SPI flash is detected or if there
 
is no valid boot image found, and error code will be shown.
 
 
 
 
 
:sectnums:
 
==== Bootloader Error Codes
 
 
 
If something goes wrong during bootloader operation, an error code is shown. In this case the processor
 
stalls, a bell command and one of the following error codes are send to the terminal, the bootloader status
 
LED is permanently activated and the system must be manually reset.
 
 
 
[cols="<2,<13"]
 
[grid="rows"]
 
|=======================
 
| **`ERROR_0`** | If you try to transfer an invalid executable (via UART or from the external SPI flash), this error message shows up. There might be a transfer protocol configuration error in the terminal program. Also, if no SPI flash was found during an auto-boot attempt, this message will be displayed.
 
| **`ERROR_1`** | Your program is way too big for the internal processor’s instructions memory. Increase the memory size or reduce your application code.
 
| **`ERROR_2`** | This indicates a checksum error. Something went wrong during the transfer of the program image (upload via UART or loading from the external SPI flash). If the error was caused by a UART upload, just try it again. When the error was generated during a flash access, the stored image might be corrupted.
 
| **`ERROR_3`** | This error occurs if the attached SPI flash cannot be accessed. Make sure you have the right type of flash and that it is properly connected to the NEORV32 SPI port using chip select #0.
 
| **`ERR 0x???????? 0x???????? 0x????????`** | The bootloader encountered an exception during operation. This might be caused when it tries to access peripherals that were not implemented during synthesis. Example: executing `l` or `s` (SPI flash operations) without the SPI module beeing implemented.
 
|=======================
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
// ####################################################################################################################
// ####################################################################################################################
:sectnums:
 
=== NEORV32 Runtime Environment
 
 
 
The NEORV32 provides a minimal runtime environment (RTE) that takes care of a stable
 
and _safe_ execution environment by handling _all_ traps (including interrupts).
 
 
 
[NOTE]
 
Using the RTE is **optional**. The RTE provides a simple and comfortable way of delegating traps while making sure that all traps (even though they are not
 
explicitly used by the application) are handled correctly. Performance-optimized applications or embedded operating systems should not use the RTE for delegating traps.
 
 
 
When execution enters the application's `main` function, the actual runtime environment is responsible for catching all implemented exceptions
 
and interrupts. To activate the NEORV32 RTE execute the following function:
 
 
 
[source,c]
 
----
 
void neorv32_rte_setup(void);
 
----
 
 
 
This setup initializes the `mtvec` CSR, which provides the base entry point for all trap
 
handlers. The address stored to this register reflects the first-level exception handler provided by the
 
NEORV32 RTE. Whenever an exception or interrupt is triggered, this first-level handler is called.
 
 
 
The first-level handler performs a complete context save, analyzes the source of the exception/interrupt and
 
calls the according second-level exception handler, which actually takes care of the exception/interrupt
 
handling. For this, the RTE manages a private look-up table to store the addresses of the according trap
 
handlers.
 
 
 
After the initial setup of the RTE, each entry in the trap handler's look-up table is initialized with a debug
 
handler, that outputs detailed hardware information via the **primary UART (UART0)** when triggered. This
 
is intended as a fall-back for debugging or for accidentally-triggered exceptions/interrupts.
 
For instance, an illegal instruction exception caught by the RTE debug handler might look like this in the UART0 output:
 
 
 
[source]
 
----
 
 Illegal instruction @ PC=0x000002d6, MTVAL=0x00001537 
 
----
 
 
 
For bus access faults the RTE also outputs the error code from the <<_internal_bus_monitor_buskeeper>>
 
to show the cause of the access fault. Two example are shown below.
 
 
 
[source]
 
----
 
 Load access fault [TIMEOUT_ERR] @ PC=0x00000150, MTVAL=0xFFFFFF70 
 
 Store access fault [DEVICE_ERR] @ PC=0x00000162, MTVAL=0xF0000000 
 
----
 
 
 
To install the **actual application's trap handlers** the NEORV32 RTE provides functions for installing and
 
un-installing trap handler for each implemented exception/interrupt source.
 
 
 
[source,c]
include::software_rte.adoc[]
----
 
int neorv32_rte_exception_install(uint8_t id, void (*handler)(void));
 
----
 
 
 
[cols="<5,<12"]
 
[options="header",grid="rows"]
 
|=======================
 
| ID name [C] | Description / trap causing entry
 
| `RTE_TRAP_I_MISALIGNED` | instruction address misaligned
 
| `RTE_TRAP_I_ACCESS`     | instruction (bus) access fault
 
| `RTE_TRAP_I_ILLEGAL`    | illegal instruction
 
| `RTE_TRAP_BREAKPOINT`   | breakpoint (`ebreak` instruction)
 
| `RTE_TRAP_L_MISALIGNED` | load address misaligned
 
| `RTE_TRAP_L_ACCESS`     | load (bus) access fault
 
| `RTE_TRAP_S_MISALIGNED` | store address misaligned
 
| `RTE_TRAP_S_ACCESS`     | store (bus) access fault
 
| `RTE_TRAP_MENV_CALL`    | environment call from machine mode (`ecall` instruction)
 
| `RTE_TRAP_UENV_CALL`    | environment call from user mode (`ecall` instruction)
 
| `RTE_TRAP_MTI`          | machine timer interrupt
 
| `RTE_TRAP_MEI`          | machine external interrupt
 
| `RTE_TRAP_MSI`          | machine software interrupt
 
| `RTE_TRAP_FIRQ_0` : `RTE_TRAP_FIRQ_15` | fast interrupt channel 0..15
 
|=======================
 
 
 
When installing a custom handler function for any of these exception/interrupts, make sure the function uses
 
**no attributes** (especially no interrupt attribute!), has no arguments and no return value like in the following
 
example:
 
 
 
[source,c]
 
----
 
void handler_xyz(void) {
 
 
 
  // handle exception/interrupt...
 
}
 
----
 
 
 
[WARNING]
 
Do NOT use the `((interrupt))` attribute for the application exception handler functions! This
 
will place an `mret` instruction to the end of it making it impossible to return to the first-level
 
exception handler of the RTE, which will cause stack corruption.
 
 
 
Example: Installation of the MTIME interrupt handler:
 
 
 
[source,c]
 
----
 
neorv32_rte_exception_install(EXC_MTI, handler_xyz);
 
----
 
 
 
To remove a previously installed exception handler call the according un-install function from the NEORV32
 
runtime environment. This will replace the previously installed handler by the initial debug handler, so even
 
un-installed exceptions and interrupts are further captured.
 
 
 
[source,c]
 
----
 
int neorv32_rte_exception_uninstall(uint8_t id);
 
----
 
 
 
Example: Removing the MTIME interrupt handler:
 
 
 
[source,c]
 
----
 
neorv32_rte_exception_uninstall(EXC_MTI);
 
----
 
 
 
[TIP]
 
More information regarding the NEORV32 runtime environment can be found in the doxygen
 
software documentation (also available online at https://stnolting.github.io/neorv32/sw/files.html[GitHub pages]).
 
include::software_rte.adoc[]
 

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