Embedded hardware description language instrumentation

A method and program product for instrumenting a hardware description language (HDL) design entity. The design entity is created utilizing a HDL source code file within the syntax convention of a platform HDL. In accordance with the method of the present invention an instrumentation entity is described within the HDL source code file utilizing a non-conventional syntax comment such that the instrumentation entity is embedded within the design entity without being incorporated into an overall design in which the design entity is incorporated. In accordance with a second embodiment, the HDL source code file includes a description of at least one operating event within the conventional syntax of the platform HDL, and the method of the present invention further includes associating the instrumentation entity with the operating event utilizing a non-conventional syntax comment within the HDL source code file.