Yes, a previously saved trace recording can be loaded and analyzed using the TRACE32 Instruction Set Simulator, without requiring any TRACE32 trace hardware. The TRACE32 Simulator is a software-only product and can be used independently of Lauterbach hardware.

For instructions on how to start TRACE32 in Simulator mode, please refer to the FAQ: How can I start TRACE32 in Simulator Mode?

Loading a Saved Trace File (*.ad)

If the trace recording was saved using the Trace.SAVE command (resulting in a .ad file), follow these steps to load it into the Simulator:

• Start the TRACE32 Simulator for your target processor architecture.

• Select the target CPU, either:

  • Using the command SYStem.CPU

  • Or via the menu: CPU > System Settings... → click the CPU button.

• Switch to “Up” mode:

  • Command: SYStem.Up

  • Or via the Up radio button in the SYStem window.

• Load the trace file:

  • Trace.LOAD <filename>.ad

  • Or use the menu: Trace > Load Reference Data...

• Load the program symbols and debug information, e.g.: Data.LOAD.Elf mydemo.elf

• If a target operating system is used, load the OS awareness using the TASK.CONFIG command, example: TASK.CONFIG ~~/demo/arm/kernel/freertos/freertos.t32

  Depending on the operating system, additional configuration may be required. Refer to the appropriate TRACE32 OS-awareness documentation for details.

• Display the trace contents, e.g. using the Trace.List command.

Loading a Raw Trace Data

The TRACE32 Simulator also supports loading and decoding raw trace recordings for selected processor architectures. Refer for more information to description of the LA.IMPORT command group in the General Commands Reference Guide L.