Artix 7: Choice of PCIe IP

[dalain00]

Hi,

We would like to send a video stream through a PCIe interface with an Artix. Xilinx seems to have 2x different IPs:

- NWL PCIe DMA (https://www.xilinx.com/support/answers/62804.html) provided with the AC701 kit (the example seems to be quit big in term of LUTs).

- DMA/Bridge Subsystem for PCI Express

Which one should be the best for video application? We need about 500MB/s. 

The main issue is the Linux driver: it would be the best to have a Video4Linux driver. Any other option with this kind of driver?

Thanks,

Denis Alain, Eng. 

[garethc · Accepted solution]

Hi @dalain00 

We do not provide or have control over the NWL PCIe DMA IP, this is provided by North West Logic and is a soft IP. It was used with this kit to show some functionality but as it is a soft IP and so it will use a lot of resources compared to the Xilinx DMA/Bridge Subsystem for PCI Express (XDMA) which is a hard block IP.

Please see the XDMA product guide PG195 for more information. We also provide drivers for Windows and Linux in AR:65444 and this can be used as a starting point to show functionality for the XDMA.

https://www.xilinx.com/support/answers/65444.html

[dalain00]

Hi,

Thanks for the info. We will look at the XDMA more closely with our application in mind.

Best Regards, 

Denis Alain, Eng

[bhall0107]

If you are able to get XDMA working on the AC701 please let me know! I have been struggling to get the card to be recognized on Windows.

Here are my struggles and what I've tried so far: https://forums.xilinx.com/t5/PCIe-and-CPM/AC701-PCIe-Example-Design-Problems/td-p/1075343

I'd really appreciate any help regarding the IP configuration and XDC constraints if you get an example design running (even on Linux).

Best,

Brad

[dalain00]

Hi Brad,

We are still defining the project, but if I have a chance to try the XDMA successfully, I will certainly help you if I can.

Best Regards, 

Denis Alain, Eng