Xilinx System Generator v2.1 Reference Guide

Reinterpret

The Reinterpret block forces its output to a new type without any regard for retaining the numerical value represented by the input. The binary representation is passed through unchanged, so in hardware this block consumes no resources. The number of bits in the output will always be the same as the number of bits in the input.

The block allows for unsigned data to be reinterpreted as signed data, or, conversely, for signed data to be reinterpreted as unsigned. It also allows for the reinterpretation of the data’s scaling, through the repositioning of the binary point within the data.

The Xilinx Scale block provides an analagous capability.

An example of this block’s use is as follows: if the input type is 6 bits wide and signed, with 2 fractional bits and the output type is forced to be unsigned with 0 fractional bits, then an input of -2.0 (1110.00 in binary, two’s complement) would be translated into an output of 56 (111000 in binary).

This block can be particularly useful in applications that combine it with the Xilinx Slice block or the Xilinx Concat block. To illustrate the block’s use, consider the following scenario:

Given two signals, one carrying signed data and the other carrying two unsigned bits (a UFix_2_0), we want to design a system that concatenates the two bits from the second signal onto the tail (least significant bits) of the signed signal.

We can do so using two Reinterpret blocks and one Concat block. The first Reinterpret block is used to force the signed input signal to be treated as an unsigned value with its binary point at zero. The result is then fed through the Concat block along with the other signal’s UFix_2_0. The Concat operation is then followed by a second Reinterpret that forces the output of the Concat block back into a signed interpretation with the binary point appropriately repositioned.

Though three blocks are required in this construction, the hardware implementation will be realized as simply a bus concatenation, which has no cost in hardware.

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Xilinx V2.1 manual Reinterpret
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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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