UVM Sequence

UVM sequence is a container that holds data items (uvm_sequence_items) which are sent to the driver via the sequencer.

uvm_sequence hierarchy

Note: uvm_sequence class is parameterized with uvm_sequence_item.

uvm_sequence class declaration:

virtual class uvm_seqence #( type REQ = uvm_sequence_item, type RSP = REQ) extends uvm_sequence_base

uvm_sequence class structure

class my_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(my_seq_item);
  `uvm_object_utils(my_sequence)

  function new(string name = "my_sequnce");
    super.new(name);
  endfunction

  task body();
    ...
  endtask
endclass

Why `uvm_object_utils is used in sequence, why `uvm_sequence_utils are not used?

`uvm_sequence_utils is a string-based sequence library that is deprecated in UVM.

What is the body() method?

The operation which is intended to do by sequence is defined inside a body method.

Along with a body() method, pre_body, and post_body methods are called by default.

class my_sequence extends uvm_sequence #(my_seq_item);
  `uvm_object_utils(my_sequence)

  function new(string name = "my_sequnce");
    super.new(name);
  endfunction

  task pre_body();
    ...
  endtask

  task body();
    ...
  endtask

  task post_body();
    ...
  endtask
endclass

Note:

These pre_body and post_body tasks are additional (can be named as callbacks) which are useful to perform any operation before and after the execution of the body() method.
pre_body() and post_body() methods are optional.

How to write a sequence?

An intention is to create a seq_item, randomize it, and then send it to the driver. To perform this operation any one of the following approaches is followed in the sequence.

Using macros like `uvm_do , `uvm_create, `uvm_send etc
Using existing methods from the base class
a. Using wait_for_grant(), send_request(), wait_for_item_done() etc
b. Using start_item/finish_item methods.

Let’s discuss the macro-based approach in UVM sequence macro and existing methods approach in the uvm_sequence_base class methods section.

UVM Tutorials