February 28, 2011 – Pentek announced features for its ReadyFlow board support package (BSP) to simplify embedded development for the Cobalt, Xilinx Virtex-6 based FPGA module family. Enhancements include a Command Line Interface that allows the hardware to run out-of-the-box without having to write any code and the introduction of a turn-key Signal Analyzer for data display, validation and monitoring.
Turn-key Functionality
ReadyFlow provides users of Pentek’s Cobalt module family with a variety of tools to help them at all stages of application development. There are numerous C-callable functions to handle initialization and test, data movement and communications and control of all board resources. Utilities such as Flash program memory loaders are also included, as are fully-tested C-language application examples that demonstrate the capabilities of Pentek’s modules and serve as a springboard for application development. Library and example source code is also included.
No Code Generation or Compiling Needed
The new Command Line Interface of pre-compiled executables is specific to the hardware features of the board it supports. It allows single-command control of parameters such as the number of enabled channels, clock frequency, data transfer size and the like. The Command Line Interface is callable from within a larger user application, providing a convenient way to configure the hardware. Operating parameters can be dynamically changed while the application is running to address application conditions.
Signal Analyzer Displays Immediate Results
When used with the Command Line Interface, the new Signal Analyzer allows users to immediately start acquiring and displaying A/D data. Data display is available in both time and frequency domains and includes built-in measurements for many standard parameters such as 2nd and 3rd harmonics and total harmonic distortion (THD). Interactive cursors also allow users to mark data points and instantly calculate frequency and amplitude of displayed signals.
Pricing and Availability
The enhanced ReadyFlow BSP is immediately available for Pentek’s Cobalt module family in both Windows (Model 4495A) and Linux (Model 4494A) operating systems. Cobalt modules are available for XMC, VPX, cPCI and PCIe form factors. Each ReadyFlow package is specific to the module it supports. The single developer license fee is USD $2,500 and allows royalty-free use of application and example code for multiple projects and includes lifetime support.
