In the dynamic landscape of embedded systems, the intersection of open-source RISC-V architectures and Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) signifies a monumental leap toward achieving flexibility, power efficiency, and performance optimization. Spearheading this evolution, Microchip Technology Inc. introduces the PolarFire® System-on-Chip (SoC) Discovery Kit.

This development platform is meticulously crafted to democratize access to pioneering RISC-V and FPGA technologies, catering to a wide spectrum of engineers—from novices to seasoned professionals. Let’s dive into the technical specifics that position this kit as a cornerstone for the future of embedded engineering.

At the heart of the PolarFire SoC Discovery Kit lies the PolarFire MPFS095T SoC FPGA. This multi-core processor harnesses the power of the open-source RISC-V Instruction Set Architecture (ISA), featuring a quad-core, 64-bit CPU cluster designed to meet the demands of applications requiring substantial computational power and efficiency. With support for both Linux® and real-time operating systems, the SoC offers a versatile platform for developing intricate embedded systems.

A hallmark of the PolarFire SoC is its 95K low-power, high-performance FPGA logic elements (LEs). These LEs provide designers with the capability to implement custom digital logic, ranging from simple glue logic functions to sophisticated system-level integrations, including custom peripherals or parallel processing algorithms. This FPGA functionality is crucial for applications necessitating specific, optimized hardware accelerators or bespoke interfaces.

The embedded microprocessor subsystem boasts a substantial L2 memory subsystem that can be configured for either peak performance or deterministic operation, supporting asymmetric multi-processing (AMP) mode. This adaptability allows designers to strike a balance between high-speed data processing and the deterministic behavior required for real-time applications. Additionally, the kit includes a microSD™ card slot for booting Linux.

The Discovery Kit is equipped with a comprehensive suite of peripherals and connectivity options to ensure its applicability across various embedded system projects:

mikroBUS™ Expansion Header: Facilitates easy integration with Click boards™, offering a vast array of sensors, transceivers, and interface boards for rapid prototyping.
40-pin Raspberry Pi® Connector: Ensures compatibility with a broad range of HATs, allowing for extensive I/O expansion.
MIPI® Rx Video Connector: Supports video applications, enabling direct connection to cameras and displays for multimedia projects.
Communication Interfaces: Includes one Gigabit Ethernet connector and three UART connections via a USB type C connector.

An on-board FlashPro5 programmer is integrated for programming and debugging the PolarFire FPGA via a USB-to-JTAG channel. This streamlines the firmware development process. The kit also provides a DSP FIR Filter reference design for immediate testing, and designers can utilize Microchip’s Libero® SoC design suite software with a free Silver License, which includes the necessary device programmer drivers.

Brief Specifications

FPGA Fabric
– Logic Elements: 93K (4-input LUT + DFF)
– Math Blocks: 292 (18×18 MACC)
– SerDes Lanes: 4 lanes at 12.7 Gbps

Microprocessor Subsystem
– 1x 64-bit RV64IMAC monitor/boot core
– 4x 64-bit RV64GC Application cores
– Fmax of 667 MHz (–40 °C to 100 °C Tj), 3.125 CoreMarks/MHz, 1.714 DMIPS/MHz
– MMC 5.1 SD/SDIO
– 1 Quad SPI flash controller
– 128 KB eNVM
– 56KB sNVM
36-bit DDR4/DDR3/LPDDR4/LPDDR3 memory controller with SECDED
– 2x GigE MACs, USB 2.0 OTG
– 5x multi-mode UARTs, 2x SPI, 2x I2C, 2x CAN 2.0 Controllers
– 2x PCIe Gen2 End Points/Root Ports

Positioned as a cost-effective solution for diverse embedded system projects, the PolarFire SoC Discovery Kit is available at $132 for the general public and a discounted $99 for participants in Microchip’s Academic Program. This accessibility ensures that designers at all levels can harness the power of this development platform.

Microchip’s PolarFire SoC Discovery Kit exemplifies our dedication to innovation, quality, and education within the embedded systems realm. By blending the open-source flexibility of RISC-V with the robust, customizable nature of FPGA technology, this development platform paves the way for designers to explore, innovate, and bring to life next-generation embedded applications. As the demand for intelligent, efficient, and versatile embedded systems continues to grow, tools like the PolarFire SoC Discovery Kit will be pivotal in equipping engineers with the capabilities needed to meet these challenges head-on.

Author Profile

Vikky K

20+ years embedded hardware design professional with a burning passion for teaching. Sharing the intricate world of embedded hardware is my mission and joy.