Create MicroBlaze & Ethernet App on Xilinx Artix FPGA
Table of Contents
🔍 Introduction
In this article, we will walk through the process of creating a MicroBlaze and Ethernet-based application on a Xilinx Artix FPGA evaluation board. We will be using Friato's operating system and LWIP IP stack for this demonstration. This article will guide you step by step through the hardware and software configuration, synthesis and bitstream generation, exporting hardware to SDK, developing the application, and configuring the FPGA to run the application.
💻 Hardware and Software Requirements
To follow along with this demonstration, you will need the following hardware and software:
- Xilinx Artix FPGA evaluation board (AC701)
- Xilinx Vivado and SDK 2018.1 version
- USB to serial converter for UART connection
- Ethernet connection between the evaluation board and your PC
🛠️ Step 1: Hardware Configuration
The first step is to define the hardware configuration in the Vivado IP Integrator. This involves adding the necessary modules for your application, such as the memory controller, MicroBlaze processor, UART, and Ethernet controller. The memory controller is essential for executing your application, and for this demonstration, we will be using the external DDR3 RAM available on the AC701 board. Once the hardware configuration is defined, it should be saved and exported.
⚙️ Step 2: Synthesis and Bitstream Generation
In this step, the hardware design is synthesized and the bitstream file is generated. Vivado will compile each IP individually, which may take some time, especially for the memory interface generator. After the compilation is completed, the bitstream file for configuring the FPGA can be exported.
📤 Step 3: Exporting Hardware to SDK
Once the bitstream file is generated, the next step is to export the hardware to the SDK. By doing this, we can develop the application software that will run on the MicroBlaze processor. The exported hardware includes the bitstream file and the hardware configuration.
👨💻 Step 4: Developing the Application
In the SDK, we will create an application project using FreeRTOS operating system and select the LWIP Echo Server as a sample application. The SDK will automatically configure the necessary parameters for LWIP based on this selection. The application project will be built, and the source code can be modified as per your requirements.
🚀 Step 5: Configuring the FPGA and Running the Application
In this final step, we will configure the FPGA with the bitstream file and download the application program to the MicroBlaze processor. The FPGA can be configured using Vivado's program FPGA option. Once the configuration is complete, the application will start running on the processor. You can observe the UART messages in the terminal and test the Ethernet functionality by pinging the evaluation board from your PC.
🎉 Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully created a MicroBlaze and Ethernet-based application on the Xilinx Artix FPGA evaluation board. This demonstration covered the step-by-step process, from hardware configuration to running the application. With this knowledge, you can now explore and expand upon this foundation to develop more complex FPGA-based applications.
Highlights:
- Learn how to create a MicroBlaze and Ethernet-based application on a Xilinx Artix FPGA evaluation board
- Use Friato's operating system and LWIP IP stack for the demonstration
- Walk through the step-by-step process of hardware configuration, synthesis and bitstream generation, exporting hardware to SDK, developing the application, and configuring the FPGA
- Test the Ethernet functionality by pinging the evaluation board from your PC
FAQ
Q: What is the purpose of the memory controller in the hardware configuration?
The memory controller is essential for executing the application on the FPGA. It allows access to the external DDR3 RAM Present on the evaluation board.
Q: Can I modify the application program created in the SDK?
Yes, the application program created in the SDK can be modified to suit your specific requirements. You can use the sample application provided as a starting point.
Q: How can I test the Ethernet functionality of the application?
To test the Ethernet functionality, you can connect the evaluation board to your PC using an Ethernet cable. Configure the IP address of your PC in the same network range as the board, and then try pinging the board from your PC using the assigned IP address.
Q: Can I use a different version of Vivado and SDK for this demonstration?
Yes, although this demonstration uses Vivado and SDK 2018.1, you can use a different version as long as it is compatible with the hardware and supports the required features.
Q: Can I use a different evaluation board instead of the Xilinx Artix AC701?
While this demonstration specifically uses the Xilinx Artix AC701 board, you can adapt the steps to work with other Xilinx FPGA evaluation boards. Just make sure to configure the hardware accordingly.
Q: What are the potential applications for a MicroBlaze and Ethernet-based FPGA design?
A MicroBlaze and Ethernet-based FPGA design can be used in various applications such as network communication, data processing, embedded systems, and IoT devices that require high-speed data transfer and processing capabilities.
Q: What are the advantages of using FreeRTOS and LWIP for this demonstration?
FreeRTOS provides a real-time operating system kernel that is lightweight and suitable for embedded systems. LWIP (Lightweight IP) is a small TCP/IP stack designed for embedded systems, making it ideal for Ethernet-based applications on FPGA.
Q: Are there any limitations or drawbacks to be aware of when developing an FPGA-based application?
When developing an FPGA-based application, it is important to consider factors such as resource utilization, power consumption, and timing constraints. Overutilization of resources or improper timing can lead to design failures or suboptimal performance. Careful design and optimization techniques should be employed to maximize the benefits of FPGA-based solutions.