modport

A modport is a concept used in hardware description languages (HDLs) like SystemVerilog to define an interface between different modules or components of a digital design. It acts as a contract, specifying the direction and type of signals that pass through it. Think of it as a standardized connection point.

Modports are typically declared within an interface. An interface in HDL is a collection of signals and tasks that are often used to model a bus or a complex communication protocol. When a modport is defined within an interface, it specifies how a particular module will interact with that interface. This interaction can be as a master, a slave, or any other defined role.

For example, a modport can declare that a module will drive certain signals (output) and sample others (input) from the interface. This encapsulation of signal directions and types makes designs more modular, reusable, and easier to understand. It also helps to prevent unintended connections or mismatches between modules. By using modports, designers can clearly delineate the responsibilities and connections of each part of their hardware design.