scope:

This standard defines SystemC^®1 as an ANSI standard C++ class library for system and hardware design.

Purpose

The general purpose of SystemC is to provide a C++-based standard for designers and architects who need to address complex systems that are a hybrid between hardware and software.

The specific purpose of this standard is to provide a precise and complete definition of the SystemC class library so that a SystemC implementation can be developed with reference to this standard alone. This standard is not intended to serve as a users' guide or to provide an introduction to SystemC, but does contain useful information for end users.

¹SystemC^® is a registered trademark of Open SystemC Initiative.