1. Processing System (PS)
Dual – Core ARM Cortex – A9 Processor The device contains a dual – core ARM Cortex – A9 MPCore processor. These cores can operate at high frequencies, enabling efficient execution of complex software applications. For example, they can run operating systems such as Linux or real – time operating systems, allowing for multi – tasking and the execution of multiple processes simultaneously.
The ARM cores support a wide range of instruction sets, including 32 – bit ARM instructions. This provides flexibility for software developers to implement various algorithms, from control – loop calculations in industrial applications to graphics – processing algorithms for display – oriented systems.
Memory Hierarchy and Interfaces It has an extensive memory hierarchy. There are on – chip caches, such as L1 and L2 caches, which help in reducing the memory access latency and improving the overall performance of the processor. The L1 cache is usually dedicated to each core for quick access to frequently used data and instructions, while the L2 cache can be shared between the two cores.
The PS provides multiple memory interfaces. It includes interfaces to external DDR (Double Data Rate) memory. This allows the device to access large amounts of external memory, which is crucial for applications that require storing and retrieving large datasets, such as video – processing applications that need to buffer frames of video data.
There are also interfaces for other types of memories like NOR Flash and NAND Flash. NOR Flash can be used to store the boot code and firmware, while NAND Flash can be used for mass – storage applications such as storing user – generated data or application – specific files.
2. Programmable Logic (PL)
FPGA – like Programmability The XC7Z010 – 2CLG400I has a significant amount of programmable logic resources. It functions similar to a traditional Field – Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). Users can configure these logic resources to implement custom digital circuits. For example, it can be used to create custom logic functions such as combinational and sequential circuits. Combinational circuits can be designed to perform arithmetic operations like multipliers and adders, while sequential circuits can implement state machines for control – logic applications.
The programmable logic is based on Look – Up – Tables (LUTs), Flip – Flops (FFs), and other programmable elements. LUTs are used to implement arbitrary logic functions, and FFs are used to store the state of the circuit. These elements can be interconnected through a programmable routing matrix to form complex digital circuits.
High – Speed I/O Interfaces The PL part of the device provides high – speed I/O interfaces. These interfaces can support various industry – standard protocols such as PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express), Gigabit Ethernet, and USB. For example, the PCIe interface allows the device to connect to high – speed peripheral devices such as solid – state drives (SSDs) or high – performance graphics cards. The Gigabit Ethernet interface enables the device to be used in networking applications, allowing for high – speed data transfer between different network – connected devices.
3. Integration and Connectivity
Inter – Connectivity between PS and PL There are efficient interfaces that connect the Processing System and the Programmable Logic. These interfaces allow for seamless data transfer and interaction between the two parts of the device. For example, the PS can configure and control the PL, and the PL can provide custom – designed hardware acceleration for software – running on the PS. This integration is a key feature that enables the device to be used in a wide range of applications, from software – defined radio to industrial automation and control systems.
Peripheral Interfaces The device offers a wide range of peripheral interfaces. In addition to the high – speed I/O interfaces mentioned earlier, it also includes interfaces for slower – speed peripherals such as UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver – Transmitter), SPI (Serial – Parallel Interface), and I2C (Inter – Integrated Circuit). These interfaces are useful for connecting to a variety of sensors, actuators, and other low – speed external devices. For example, the I2C interface can be used to connect to temperature sensors, while the SPI interface can be used to interface with external ADCs (Analog – to – Digital Converters) or DACs (Digital – to – Analog Converters).
