Create a Frigate System Using Cyclo: A Step-by-Step Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Hardware Setup
3. Software Setup
4. Creating the System
5. Adding Hardware Components
6. Connecting the Components
7. Assigning Base Addresses
8. Generating the HDL
9. Adding HDL to the Project
10. Hardware Implementation Flow
11. Software Build Flow
12. Creating the Application
13. Downloading the Software
14. Running the System
15. Conclusion

Introduction

In this Tutorial, we will learn how to create a simple system using Cyclo for a frigate in Saipan. The system will involve targeting a soft-core processor and communicating with it to display a STRING on the console. We will cover both the hardware and software parts of creating the system.

Hardware Setup

To begin the hardware part of creating the system, we need to open the File menu and select the New Project Wizard. In the project wizard window, we will specify the project name, target directory, target device, and device data. We will then create a directory and choose the appropriate device for our system.

Choosing the Target Device Family

In the project wizard, we will choose the target device family as Cyclone IV E. From the available devices, we will select the specific device P4CE115F29C7. This device has the desired features for our system, including a Package, FPGA, Pin count, and speed grade.

Adding Hardware Components

Once the project is created, we will invoke Platform Designer, formerly known as SOPC Builder, to add the required hardware components. The components we need for our system include a Nios II soft-core processor, on-chip memory, and JTAG communication module. We will add these components from the IP catalog.

Software Setup

While working on the hardware part, we can simultaneously start the software flow. We will use Quartus Tools and the Software Build Tools for Eclipse to build the software for our system. It is crucial to specify the correct project directory during this process to ensure proper execution.

Creating the Application

In Quartus Prime, we will navigate to the Tools menu and select the Software Build Tools for Eclipse. This will open the Eclipse environment. Here, we will create a new Nios II application project and specify the location of the PC info file. Once the project is created, we can browse the project directory to find the generated C code.

Downloading the Software

Once the software is built, we need to download the executable file to the target system. We will use the Hardware Setup and USB Blaster options in Quartus Tools to establish the connection to the target device. With the connection established, we can download the software and verify the communication between the processor and the system.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have learned how to create a simple system using Cyclo for a frigate in Saipan. We went through the hardware and software setup steps, as well as the process of adding hardware components, connecting them, and generating the HDL. We also covered the software build flow and running the system on the target device. By following these steps, you can create your own system using Cyclo and achieve the desired functionality.

Highlights:

• Learn how to create a simple system using Cyclo for a frigate in Saipan.
• Understand the hardware and software setup required for the system.
• Add hardware components, connect them, and generate the HDL.
• Build and download the software to the target device.

FAQ: Q: What is Cyclo? A: Cyclo is a tool used to create systems for FPGA devices.

Q: What is the purpose of the Nios II soft-core processor? A: The Nios II soft-core processor is used to handle the processing tasks in the system.

Resources:

• Quartus Prime
• Nios II Processor
• Platform Designer
• Eclipse