1. A computer-based validation system for validating functions of a packet management unit (PMU) operationally coupled through a system interface to a stream processing unit of a packet processor, the validation system comprising: a processor; and an instruction memory in communication with the processor for storing a plurality of processing instructions for directing the processor to: create a model configured to emulate functions of the PMU, the system interface, and the stream processing unit; and wherein the model is further configured to: receive an input packet stream; process the input packet stream; and generate output activity; and compare the output activity to criteria of a test code resulting in an indication of pass or failure.