Xilinx System Generator v2.1 Reference Guide

Block Parameters Dialog Box

The block parameters dialog box can be invoked by double-clicking the icon in your Simulink model.

Figure 3-1: System Generator block parameters dialog box

Parameters specific to the System Generator block are:

∙Xilinx Product Family

Supported families currently are: Virtex, Virtex2, Spartan2, and VirtexE.

∙Target Directory

Specify where the output files (VHDL, cores, and project files) will be written. It is suggested that you create a separate directory (away from your Simulink model files) to generate your files in order to keep your Xilinx project files and Simulink model files directories organized separately.

∙System Clock Period

Enter the desired System Clock Period of your design in nanoseconds (ns). This information will be passed to the Xilinx software tools through the user constraints file (.ucf) that will be created by the System Generator. This value will be used as the global PERIOD constraint and multi-cycle paths will be constrained to a multiple of this value.

∙Create Testbench

Checking the Create Testbench box instructs the tool to save test vectors to be used downstream, during behavioral simulation.

When the Create Testbench box is checked, a VHDL testbench wrapper file is created for your design. Data vectors (created during Simulink simulation) are also generated.

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Xilinx V2.1 manual Block Parameters Dialog Box, System Generator block parameters dialog box
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V2.1 specifications

Xilinx V2.1 is a notable iteration in the series of versatile and robust Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) developed to cater to a wide range of applications. Launched to provide enhancements in performance and flexibility, V2.1 embodies sophisticated technologies and features that stand out in the electronics industry.

One of the primary features of Xilinx V2.1 is its improved processing power. The architecture has been optimized to support higher clock speeds and increased logic density, allowing for more complex designs to be implemented effectively. This boost in performance is facilitated by utilizing advanced silicon technologies, which significantly reduce power consumption while maximizing efficiency.

Another significant characteristic of Xilinx V2.1 is its enhanced I/O (Input/Output) capabilities. The device supports a variety of industry-standard interfaces, which include PCI Express, SATA, and various serial communication protocols. Such adaptability ensures seamless integration into existing systems, providing engineers with the flexibility to adapt to various application requirements without the need for substantial redesign efforts.

Xilinx V2.1 also features improved scalability, making it a prime choice for applications that demand diverse performance levels. This device supports an array of configurations and can be used in small-scale projects as well as in larger, more demanding environments requiring extensive resources. This scalability is further aided by support for multiple development platforms, enabling rapid prototyping and simplifying the design process.

Security is increasingly becoming a priority in digital design, and Xilinx V2.1 addresses this concern via hardware security features. It includes enhanced encryption protocols and secure boot functionalities, which help protect intellectual property and sensitive data from unauthorized access.

Additionally, the integration of advanced DSP (Digital Signal Processing) blocks allows Xilinx V2.1 to efficiently handle data-intensive tasks such as video processing and real-time signal analysis. These capabilities make it suitable for applications in telecommunications, automotive systems, and industrial automation.

Xilinx V2.1 also benefits from a rich development environment, including robust software tools that facilitate design entry, simulation, and verification. The support for industry-standard programming languages like VHDL and Verilog simplifies the development process, enabling engineers to design complex systems more efficiently.

In summary, Xilinx V2.1 stands out due to its impressive combination of high performance, flexibility, scalability, security, and comprehensive development support. These features make it a valuable asset for engineers and developers looking to innovate across various sectors, from telecommunications and automotive to industrial applications.
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