Mezzanine module is small but might with Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC
Mini-PCIe-based APZU series AcroPack modules from Acromag are the smallest yet from the company. It combines multi-core Arm processors, FPGA capabilities and I/O interfaces on a rugged, high-density platform for embedded computing applications.
The APZU mini PCIe-based AcroPack modules have a programmable I/O, featuring the Xilinx Zynq UltraScale+ multiprocessor SoC (MPSoC). Three models are available offering a choice of digital I/O interfaces with 28 TTL, 20 TTL and three RS422/485, or 14 LVDS signals. The mezzanine modules mount on a variety of AcroPack carrier cards for PCIe, VPX, and other platforms allowing developers to mix and match I/O combinations on a single board for embedded applications running on Linux, Windows, or VxWorks operating systems.
The APZU’s Zynq 3CG MPSoC combines a feature-rich Arm-based processing system and programmable logic in a single device. Two dual-core Arm Cortex CPUs (A53 application processor and R5 real-time processor) deliver high performance computation capability. The 154k logic cells provide plenty of FPGA processing blocks for hardware acceleration and compute-intensive tasks. Additional resources include large on-chip memory, external memory interfaces, and a rich set of peripheral connectivity interfaces. Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, and USB-UART interfaces are supported.
The AcroPack modules measure just 30 x 70mm. They use a standard mini PCIe edge connector but add a down-facing 100-pin connector which internally routes I/O signals through the carrier card to secure field connectors. This structure eliminates loose cables and increases reliability, says Acromag.
“Designers can increase overall system performance by leveraging the tightly-coupled CPU and FPGA computing engines for different signal processing tasks in a very small and cost-effective form factor,” explained Acromag’s Business development manager, Robert Greenfield.
AcroPacks are suitable for defence and aerospace systems, in the adaptive filtering, protocol conversion, simulation, HIL test, motor control, image processing, and sensor fusion applications. The COTS modules can be used in PCIe servers, VPX or CompactPCI Serial chassis, and small form factor embedded computers.
Acromag was founded in 1957. It designs and manufactures hi-tech electronics. Its head quarters are near Detroit, Michigan, USA and the company has a global network of sales representatives and distributors.
Acromag offers embedded computing and I/O solutions including general purpose I/O boards, single board computers, FPGA modules, embedded computers, COM Express products, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.
