The Xilinx DLC10 is an ideal tool for debugging embedded firmware and software when utilized with Xilinx applications. Also, it is a Platform Cable USB II with great features and benefits. Read more to have an in-depth knowledge on Xilinx DLC10
What is Xilinx DLC10?
DLC10 is a platform cable USB II designed by Xilinx. It provides integrated firmware to offer reliable, high-performance configuration and programming of Xilinx devices. Xilinx DLC10 optimizes direct programming of SPI flash memory devices. Also, the device offers indirect programming of parallel NOR flash memory devices through the FPGA JTAG port.
The Xilinx DLC10 is an ideal tool for debugging embedded firmware and software when utilized with Xilinx applications. Also, this includes applications like the ChipScopeTM Pro Analyzer and Embedded Development Kit. Xilinx DLC10 attaches to user hardware for Xilinx FPGAs configuration and Xilinx CPLDs and PROMs programming.
Xilinx DLC10 is a platform Cable USB II. Also, it replaces the Platform Cable USB. However, it is similar to Platform Cable USB. Xilinx DLC10 is specially designed for prototyping environments. Also, all Xilinx design tools supported by Platform Cable USB support Platform Cable USB II.
Furthermore, Xilinx DLC10 attaches to the USB port on a laptop or desktop computer using a Hi-Speed USB A-B cable. This cable gets its operating power from the hub port controller. Therefore, there is no need for any external power supply. The number of USB devices using the hub bandwidth determines sustained data transmission rates in Hi-Speed USB environment.
Device programming and configuration that utilizes Xilinx DLC10 are supported by Xilinx IMPACT download software. Also, Xilinx DLC10 uses a 14-conductor ribbon cable to attach itself to target systems. This cable is ideal for high bandwidth data transmissions.
A fire-retardant plastic space houses Xilinx DLC10. Also, there is an internal EMI protection that attenuates internally produced emissions. Also, this EMI shield protects against vulnerability to radiated emissions.
Features of Xilinx DLC10
Xilinx DLC10 is a Platform Cable USB II that offers several features.
PROM and FPGA configuration and programming
Xilinx DLC10 enables high-performance PROM and FPGA configuration and programming. Also, this includes FPGA-based acceleration firmware housed in a small form factor pod. In addition, DLC10 supports high-speed slave-serial mode. This platform cable USB II is ideal for prototyping.
Highly optimized for Xilinx design tools
Xilinx DLC10 is compatible with Xilinx design tools like Embedded Development Kit and System Generator for DSP. Also, it is compatible with other design tools such as ChipScope Pro Analyzer and ISE WebPACK/ISE Foundation.
Easy to use
Xilinx DLC10 is fully integrated for use with Xilinx iMPACT software. Also, some operating systems support this Platform Cable USB II. These operating systems include SUSE Linux Enterprise, Microsoft Windows XP Professional, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
Automatically adapts to target I/O voltage
DLC10 can automatically adapt to target I/O voltage. Also, this USB II leverages industry standards like USB 2.0, SPI, and JTAG boundary-scan.
How to Connect and Use Xilinx DLC10
Xilinx DLC10 is specially designed to optimize the bandwidth of USB 2.0 ports. However, it is backward-compatible with other USB 1.1 ports. The host computer must feature a USB Host Controller with USB ports. Also, the controller can stay on the motherboard of the PCB.
Xilinx DLC10 is compatible with Xilinx design tools like System Generator for DSP and ISE Foundation/ISE WebPACK.
Operating power
Xilinx DLC10 is a bus-powered device that adapts to the capabilities of the USB port to ensure the highest possible performance. This Platform Cable USB II draws less than 150mA from the host USB port. Xilinx DLC10 supports any USB port type like external bus-powered hubs or USB ports on root hubs. However, performance isn’t optimal when DLC10 attaches to USB 1.1 hubs.
Firmware
DLC10 firmware stays in an FPGA/PROM and USB microcontroller. Also, this microcontroller is RAM-based and firmware downloads every time the cable connects and the host operating system detects it. You can also download additional firmware to the microcontroller if a design tool creates a connection with the cable. Also, the USB protocol ensures the firmware successfully downloads.
Xilinx DLC10 comprises Xilinx Spartan-3A FPGA. You need to examine the firmware version in the PROM, every time a design tool creates a connection with the cable. Also, the PROM reprograms automatically over the cable if the firmware version needs updating. The design tool will display a warning message if there is a need for an update.
Hot Plug and Play
You can attach and remove DLC10 from the host computer without powering-down or rebooting. There is a short delay after the cable connects to a port before the status LED illuminates.
Platform Cable USB II Connections
High performance ribbon cable
There is a 6-inch ribbon cable needed for connection to target systems. Also, this cable features several signal-ground pairs and enhances error-free connections. You can optimize the ribbon cable by incorporating a mating connector into the target system. This connector is usually installed during prototype check. You can remove the connector when the production hardware becomes functional. This will help to reduce cost.
Flying wire adapter
There is an adapter with wires. This adapter helps to attach to target systems that don’t use shrouded 2mm connectors. Also, the adapter allows you to use flying wires for connections to deliver terminals in a target system. The flying wire adapter is a small board having two connectors. Also, the connector on the adapter’s bottom side bonds with the 14-pin Platform Cable USB II male 2mm connector. Then a 7-pin header on the adapter’s top side joins the standard Xilinx flying wire set.
USB Hub Types and Cable Performance
Two crucial hub specifications impact the functionality of Platform Cable II. These specifications are total bandwidth and maximum port current
Total bandwidth
The highest theoretical bandwidth for a single USB 2.0 Hi-Speed device is 480 Mb/s. Also, the highest bandwidth for a single USB 1.1 full-speed device is 12Mb/s. Actual bandwidth needs to be lower than these values. Xilinx DLC10 offers optimal performance when enumerated on a Hi-speed USB port. However, Hi-speed USB operation occurs when the cable is directly attached to a USB 2.0 root hub.
Maximum port current
Xilinx DLC10 is a bus-powered device that draws less than 150 mA from the USB port while operating. However, some older USB root hubs limit peripherals to 100mA. It is impossible for Platform Cable USB II to enumerate on hubs having 100 mA restrictions.
Conclusion
Xilinx DLC10 is a reliable device that offers great benefits when used in applications. This device complies with certain standards. This includes protection against harmful interference when operated in a commercial environment.
