"Implementing Digital Signal Processing Algorithms in Actel's RT54SX-S Family"
Ken Stevens
University of Colorado, BoulderAbstract
FPGAs offer an attractive platform for the implementation of digital signal processing functions in spaceflight applications because they allow the designer to optimize between performance and power by precisely tailoring the processing logic to mission requirements. One obstacle to efficient algorithm development is the fact that the tool flow for Actel’s RT54SX-S family does not inherently support translation from a high-level analysis tool, such as the Interactive Data Language (IDL) by Research Systems Inc, to gate-level implementation. Another is that to provide reasonable algorithm performance with the resources available in the RT54SX-S family often requires a highly-optimized VHDL-based implementation. Given these constraints, a methodology that effectively combines the use of a high-level analysis tool for algorithm characterization and refinement with VHDL simulation and in-circuit testing of the FPGA logic implementation is essential.
This paper describes methods used in the development of the FPGA-based digital filters, vector processor, and spectral analysis processor for the electro-magnetic fields instruments on NASA’s THEMIS project. Although methodology is the primary focus, implementation examples drawn from the development of the digital signal processing FPGAs are used to illustrate key points. Items that are addressed include:
Development of the ideal algorithm and regression test cases in IDL to create a standard against which other design iterations can be measured.
Analysis and design of the hardware-constrained algorithms.
Modeling and verification of the hardware-constrained algorithms using IDL and VHDL.
Development of the common data-handling infrastructure.
Integration of the algorithms with the common data-handling infrastructure.
Description of LabVIEW-based ground-support equipment that provides in-circuit verification by automatically comparing data processed on-board with raw waveforms processed using the IDLbased algorithms.
From a technical perspective, emphasis is placed on identifying methods that both save time and help to ensure consistency throughout the various stages of development. From a program perspective, emphasis is placed on how the methodology described fosters and maintains a close working relationship with the science team by allowing them to interact with the system throughout the development process using a familiar high-level analysis tool.