User guide

January 2013 Altera Corporation Video and Image Processing Suite
User Guide
24. Test Pattern Generator MegaCore
Function
Core Overview
The Test Pattern Generator MegaCore function generates a video stream that displays
either still color bars for use as a test pattern or a constant color for use as a uniform
background. You can use this MegaCore function during the design cycle to validate a
video system without the possible throughput issues associated with a real video
input.
Functional Description
The Test Pattern Generator MegaCore function can be used to produce a video stream
compliant with the Avalon-ST Video protocol that feeds a video system during its
design cycle. The Test Pattern Generator MegaCore function produces data on request
and consequently permits easier debugging of a video data path without the risks of
overflow or misconfiguration associated with the use of the Clocked Video Input
MegaCore function or of a custom component using a genuine video input.
Test Pattern
The Test Pattern Generator MegaCore function can generate either a uniform image
using a constant color specified by the user at compile time or a set of predefined color
bars. Both patterns are delimited by a black rectangular border. The color bar pattern
(Figure 24–1) is a still image composed with a set of eight vertical color bars of 75%
intensity (white, yellow, cyan, green, magenta, red, blue, black).
The sequence runs through the eight possible on/off combinations of the three color
components of the RGB color space starting with a 75% amplitude white. Green is on
for the first four bars and off for the last four bars, red cycles on and off every two
bars, and blue cycles on and off every bar.
Figure 24–1. Color Bar Pattern