FPGA Data Transfer BRAM to DDR4 via DMA using AXI on ZCU102 PDF

FPGA Data Transfer: BRAM to DDR4 via DMA using AXI on ZCU102 This presentation outlines the data transfer process from Block RAM (BRAM) to DDR4 memory using Direct Memory Access (DMA) with Advanced eXtensible Interface (AXI) communication in a Xilinx ZCU102 FPGA-based system. We will explore the sys...

FPGA Data Transfer: BRAM to DDR4 via DMA using AXI on ZCU102 This presentation outlines the data transfer process from Block RAM (BRAM) to DDR4 memory using Direct Memory Access (DMA) with Advanced eXtensible Interface (AXI) communication in a Xilinx ZCU102 FPGA-based system. We will explore the system architecture, BRAM configuration, DMA controller implementation, AXI protocol, DDR4 memory interface, and software development flow using Xilinx Vitis. We will conclude with performance analysis and optimization strategies. by Yashodhare K Introduction: ZCU102 and Data Transfer Challenges The Xilinx ZCU102 evaluation board presents unique challenges in achieving efficient data transfer between BRAM and DDR4 memory. High- speed data transfer is critical for many FPGA applications. We'll delve into these challenges, including bandwidth limitations, latency issues, and synchronization complexities. Addressing these issues requires a deep understanding of the ZCU102 architecture and efficient use of DMA and AXI protocols to optimize throughput and minimize overhead. 1 Bandwidth 2 Latency Maximizing data throughput Minimizing transfer delays 3 Synchronization Ensuring data integrity System Architecture Overview: Zynq MPSOC and AXI Interconnect The Zynq MPSOC architecture forms the foundation of our data transfer system. This architecture integrates processing and programmable logic. The AXI interconnect serves as the communication backbone, enabling high- speed data exchange. Understanding the AXI architecture is crucial for designing an efficient data transfer system. The AXI protocol supports burst transfers, which are essential for maximizing data throughput. Processing System Programmable Logic CPU and peripherals Custom hardware acceleration BRAM Configuration and Data Storage Block RAM (BRAM) is a key component for on-chip data storage. This allows high-speed access. Configuring BRAM involves defining its size, data width, and addressing scheme. Efficient BRAM utilization is crucial for optimizing the performance of DMA transfers. Proper BRAM configuration will improve data locality and minimize access times. BRAM offers faster read/write access compared to external memory. Define Size Addressing 1 2 3 Set Data Width DMA Controller Implementation in Vivado The DMA controller is essential for transferring data between BRAM and DDR4 without CPU intervention. Vivado provides tools to implement and customize the DMA controller. Key configurations include setting up the AXI interfaces, transfer size, and interrupt handling. DMA significantly reduces the processing load on the CPU, leading to improved system performance. AXI Interface Transfer Size Configuration for BRAM and Setting the amount of data to DDR4 transfer Interrupts Handling transfer completion AXI Communication Protocol Explained The AXI communication protocol governs data transfer between the DMA controller, BRAM, and DDR4 memory. The AXI protocol provides a standardized interface for high-performance data transfer. This ensures compatibility and interoperability between different components in the system. Key aspects of AXI include address channels, data channels, and control signals. Understanding these aspects is crucial for debugging and optimizing data transfer. Data 2 Actual payload Address 1 Transfer location Control 3 Handshake signals DDR4 Memory Interface and Addressing The DDR4 memory interface provides high-capacity storage for data. Proper configuration of the DDR4 memory interface is crucial for achieving optimal performance. Addressing within DDR4 memory involves specifying row, column, and bank addresses. Understanding the DDR4 addressing scheme enables efficient data access. Efficient DDR4 memory management optimizes data transfer speeds. Row Column Bank Vitis Software Development Flow for DMA Xilinx Vitis provides a comprehensive software development environment for programming the DMA controller. The Vitis flow involves writing software to configure DMA transfers, manage interrupts, and handle data processing. This is essential for initiating and monitoring DMA transfers. Vitis allows developers to seamlessly integrate software and hardware components. This simplifies the development process. Code Debug Run Write DMA software Fix issues Execute program Visual Diagram Walkthrough: Data Flow from BRAM to DDR4 This visual diagram illustrates the data flow from BRAM to the DMA controller, through the AXI interconnect, and finally to DDR4 memory. This process involves initializing the DMA controller, configuring AXI interfaces, and initiating data transfers. The DMA controller fetches data from BRAM, transfers it through the AXI bus, and writes it to DDR4 memory. Monitoring the status of DMA transfers is essential for error handling. Write to DDR4 AXI Transfer Initialize DMA Performance Analysis and Optimization Strategies Analyzing the performance of DMA transfers is crucial for identifying bottlenecks and optimization opportunities. Key performance metrics include throughput, latency, and CPU utilization. Optimization strategies include adjusting AXI burst sizes, optimizing BRAM access patterns, and improving DDR4 memory management. Regular performance monitoring helps maintain an efficient data transfer system. 100+ GB/s Throughput