Xilinx System Generator v2.1 Reference Guide

Black Box

The Xilinx Black Box token enables you to instantiate your own specialized functions in your model, and subsequently into a generated design. Like the System Generator token, the Black Box token can be placed in any Simulink subsystem, identifying the subsystem as a black box. If you choose to include functionality in your Simulink model that does not exist in the current blockset, any Simulink subsystem can be

treated as a black box. You may want to build a model out of non-Xilinx blocks for an HDL representation of functionality that you want to turn into a Simulink model.

To create a black box in the System Generator, you must supply both a Simulink model and a corresponding HDL file.

Incorporating mixed language black boxes

System Generator creates VHDL for the Xilinx blocks in your design. But if you include a black box that is written in Verilog HDL, System Generator will produce a mixed language project.

A VHDL black box and a Verilog black box share the same interface, as is seen below in the description of the block parameters. You must specify the VHDL/Verilog design unit name, and specify types, names, and values of generics or parameters. You must also specify how many clocks the black box has and how these clocks should be associated with ports.

In addition, you must specify whether you are inserting a VHDL black box or a Verilog black box by choosing the appropriate language in the HDL Language option on the Black Box block parameter dialog. System Generator will generate a corresponding wrapper in the chosen language.

Block Parameters Dialog Box

The Black Box block parameters dialog box encapsulates the design information necessary for the compiler to create the correct instantiation interfaces. This black box support allows you to abstract commonly used control signals and ports, and then

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Xilinx Development System

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Xilinx V2.1 manual Black Box, Incorporating mixed language black boxes
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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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