SmartFusion2 is a System-on-Chip (SoC) device developed by Microsemi, a leading semiconductor manufacturer. SmartFusion2 integrates a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) with a hard ARM Cortex-M3 core, offering a unique combination of flexibility and performance. The device is designed for a wide range of applications, including industrial automation, aerospace and defense, and communications.
One of the key features of SmartFusion2 is its security capabilities. The device includes a range of security features, such as secure boot, tamper detection, and secure key storage, that help protect against malicious attacks and ensure the integrity of the system. SmartFusion2 also includes a hardware cryptographic engine that supports a range of encryption and decryption algorithms, making it ideal for applications that require secure communication.
In addition to its security features, SmartFusion2 offers a range of other benefits. Its FPGA fabric allows for customization and optimization of the system, while its ARM Cortex-M3 core provides high-performance processing capabilities. SmartFusion2 also includes a range of analog and digital peripherals, such as ADCs, DACs, and GPIOs, that make it easy to interface with other devices and sensors. Overall, SmartFusion2 is a versatile and powerful SoC device that offers a unique combination of flexibility, performance, and security.
Overview
What is SmartFusion2 Microsemi?
SmartFusion2 Microsemi is a System-on-Chip (SoC) device that combines an FPGA, ARM Cortex-M3 processor, and programmable analog, making it a highly integrated and versatile solution for a wide range of applications. It is designed to offer high reliability, low power consumption, and security features, making it ideal for use in industrial, medical, and aerospace applications.
Features and Benefits
SmartFusion2 Microsemi offers a range of features and benefits that make it a popular choice for developers. Some of these features include:
- FPGA fabric with up to 150K logic elements
- Embedded ARM Cortex-M3 processor with up to 166 MHz clock speed
- Programmable analog with up to 12-bit ADC and DAC resolution
- High-speed serial interfaces, including PCIe, USB, and Ethernet
- Low power consumption with power-down modes for idle and sleep states
- Built-in security features, including secure boot and tamper detection
The benefits of using SmartFusion2 Microsemi include reduced time-to-market, lower development costs, and improved system performance. The combination of FPGA, processor, and programmable analog allows for greater flexibility in system design and customization, while the built-in security features ensure the protection of sensitive data and intellectual property.
In summary, SmartFusion2 Microsemi is a highly integrated and versatile SoC device that offers a range of features and benefits for developers. Its combination of FPGA, ARM Cortex-M3 processor, and programmable analog make it an ideal solution for a wide range of applications, while its low power consumption and built-in security features ensure reliability and protection.
Architecture
The SmartFusion2 Microsemi is a System on Chip (SoC) that integrates an FPGA with a hard ARM Cortex-M3 processor. The device has a rich set of peripherals, including Ethernet, USB, CAN, and I2C, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
System Architecture
The SmartFusion2 Microsemi has a hierarchical system architecture that includes the following levels:
- System level: Includes the hard ARM Cortex-M3 processor, DDR3 memory controller, and system-level peripherals such as Ethernet and USB.
- Subsystem level: Includes the FPGA fabric, which can be programmed using the Libero SoC design software.
- IP level: Includes Intellectual Property (IP) blocks such as the CAN and I2C controllers, which can be configured using the IP Catalog in Libero SoC.
The system architecture provides a flexible platform for developing complex embedded systems. The hard ARM Cortex-M3 processor provides a high-performance, low-power processing core, while the FPGA fabric can be programmed to implement custom logic and interfaces.
Programmable Logic
The SmartFusion2 Microsemi has a large FPGA fabric that can be programmed using the Libero SoC design software. The FPGA fabric includes the following resources:
- Logic cells: Basic building blocks for implementing combinational and sequential logic.
- Block RAM: On-chip memory blocks that can be used for data storage and processing.
- DSP blocks: Specialized blocks for implementing digital signal processing algorithms.
- I/O blocks: Blocks for interfacing with external devices.
The FPGA fabric can be programmed using a variety of languages, including Verilog, VHDL, and SystemVerilog. The Libero SoC design software provides a comprehensive development environment for designing, simulating, and programming the FPGA fabric.
In conclusion, the SmartFusion2 Microsemi is a powerful SoC that provides a flexible platform for developing complex embedded systems. The system architecture and programmable logic resources make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from industrial automation to aerospace and defense.
Design Tools
Libero SoC Design Suite
Libero SoC Design Suite is a comprehensive development tool for designing and programming SmartFusion2 SoC FPGAs. It offers a complete design flow for creating and implementing FPGA designs, including advanced synthesis and simulation tools, as well as a powerful design exploration environment. Libero SoC Design Suite also includes a wide range of IP cores, including memory controllers, Ethernet and USB controllers, and DSP blocks, which can be easily integrated into your design.
The tool provides a user-friendly interface that enables designers to quickly and easily configure and implement their designs. It also includes a built-in debug environment that allows designers to quickly identify and fix any issues that may arise during the design process.
SoftConsole IDE
SoftConsole IDE is a free, Eclipse-based integrated development environment (IDE) for designing and programming SmartFusion2 SoC FPGAs. It provides a complete development environment for C/C++ programming, including a code editor, compiler, debugger, and project management tools.
SoftConsole IDE also includes a range of pre-built software libraries, including device drivers, communication stacks, and operating systems, which can be easily integrated into your design. The tool also includes a range of debugging and profiling tools, including a real-time trace analyzer, which allows you to quickly identify and fix any issues that may arise during the development process.
In summary, the Libero SoC Design Suite and SoftConsole IDE are powerful and comprehensive development tools for designing and programming SmartFusion2 SoC FPGAs. They provide a complete design flow, from initial design exploration to final implementation, and offer a range of advanced synthesis, simulation, and debugging tools.
Applications
SmartFusion2 Microsemi is a highly versatile device that finds applications in various sectors. Some of the sectors that benefit from SmartFusion2 Microsemi’s features include Industrial Automation, Medical and Healthcare, and Military and Aerospace.
Industrial Automation
SmartFusion2 Microsemi is a reliable, low-power, and cost-effective solution for industrial automation applications. The device’s FPGA fabric enables the integration of custom logic, and its ARM Cortex-M3 processor provides the necessary processing power for industrial control and automation systems. SmartFusion2 Microsemi’s security features make it an ideal solution for applications that require secure data storage and transmission.
Medical and Healthcare
SmartFusion2 Microsemi’s low power consumption, integrated security features, and small form factor make it an ideal solution for medical and healthcare applications. The device’s FPGA fabric enables the integration of custom logic, and its ARM Cortex-M3 processor provides the necessary processing power for medical devices such as patient monitors, infusion pumps, and diagnostic equipment. SmartFusion2 Microsemi’s security features make it an ideal solution for medical devices that require secure data storage and transmission.
Military and Aerospace
SmartFusion2 Microsemi’s radiation tolerance and security features make it an ideal solution for military and aerospace applications. The device’s FPGA fabric enables the integration of custom logic, and its ARM Cortex-M3 processor provides the necessary processing power for military and aerospace systems such as avionics, satellite communications, and missile guidance systems. SmartFusion2 Microsemi’s security features make it an ideal solution for military and aerospace systems that require secure data storage and transmission.
In conclusion, SmartFusion2 Microsemi is a highly versatile device that finds applications in various sectors such as Industrial Automation, Medical and Healthcare, and Military and Aerospace. Its FPGA fabric, ARM Cortex-M3 processor, radiation tolerance, and security features make it an ideal solution for applications that require custom logic, processing power, radiation tolerance, and secure data storage and transmission.
Resources
SmartFusion2 Microsemi is a powerful and versatile system-on-chip (SoC) solution that offers a range of features and capabilities for a variety of applications. To help users get the most out of their SmartFusion2 devices, Microsemi provides a range of resources, including documentation, training, and support.
Documentation
Microsemi provides a comprehensive set of documentation for SmartFusion2, including datasheets, user guides, application notes, and reference designs. These resources cover a wide range of topics, including hardware design, software development, and system integration. The documentation is available online and can be downloaded for free from the Microsemi website.
Training
Microsemi offers a range of training courses and workshops for SmartFusion2, including online courses, on-site training, and custom training programs. These courses cover a range of topics, including hardware design, software development, and system integration. The training is designed to help users get up to speed quickly with SmartFusion2 and to provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to develop high-quality products.
Support
Microsemi provides comprehensive technical support for SmartFusion2, including online support, phone support, and email support. The support team is staffed by experienced engineers who are available to help users with any questions or issues they may have. In addition, Microsemi offers a range of support resources, including a knowledge base, forums, and community resources, to help users get the most out of their SmartFusion2 devices.
In conclusion, Microsemi provides a range of resources to help users get the most out of their SmartFusion2 devices. These resources include documentation, training, and support, and are designed to help users develop high-quality products quickly and efficiently. With these resources, users can take full advantage of the capabilities of SmartFusion2 and develop innovative solutions for a range of applications.
