How do I reset the ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller in the Microsemi SmartFusion2 MSS Reset Controller?

[Juliana]

To reset the ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller within the Microsemi SmartFusion2 MSS Reset Controller, you'll work with the M3_RESET_N signal. This signal acts as an active-low reset input, originating from the FPGA fabric. Setting M3_RESET_N to '0' triggers a reset of the Cortex-M3. This capability is useful for extending the reset duration specifically for the Cortex-M3, even after the rest of the MSS has exited its reset state. A key application is secure hardware-based code shadowing, which you can activate by asserting the M3_RESET_N signal, and this helps to reduce boot times. Following the extended reset, the Cortex-M3 begins executing a minimal boot loader from the eNVM block. If code shadowing isn't needed and you require access to the entire MSS, you can configure the M3_RESET_N signal to remain statically high within the FPGA fabric. For comprehensive details on configuring and using the M3_RESET_N signal in your Microsemi SmartFusion2 MSS Reset Controller designs, please consult the Microsemi SmartFusion2 User's Guide.