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MEZU-A7G8 Module

Up to 8x 1GbE ports pluggable module with SO-DIMM format

Overview

MEZU-A7G8 is a pluggable System-on-Module (SoM) designed to streamline the implementation of custom-made Ethernet networking designs. This facilitates an easy integration of Ethernet industrial networks into equipment for the Electric, Transportation, Aerospace, and Industrial Automation sectors. The MEZU-A7G8 module is built on the AMD/Xilinx Artix-7 series FPGA.

This SoM enables the implementation of custom switches and/or end-equipment with robust networking capabilities. Network frame processing can be executed in hardware using specific SOC-E IP Cores.

What sets the MEZU-A7G8 module apart is its high level of firmware flexibility. It functions as a programmable platform, allowing customers to incorporate their own FPGA-based designs. Alternatively, it can be preprogrammed with a firmware based on SOC-E’s IP Cores, featuring technologies like HSR/PRP/RSTP for redundancy and/or PTP for time synchronization. 

To facilitate its integration into customer platform, a compatible carrier board is available for purchase. A reference firmware and FPGA design is also available from SOC-E, along with carrier design files (schematics, connector information and CAD files). 

With MEZU-A7G8 module, you have the power to transform your industrial network within your reach.

Key Features

  1. Customizable Functionality

    FPGA bitstream can be customized to fit customer use case requirements.

  2. Multiple Gigabit Ethernet PHY’s

    Includes up to 8x Ethernet PHYs, with direct connection to the programmable logic (PL) the FPGA.

  3. Industrial Grade Components Only
  4. Reduced Time-to-market

    Thanks to the use of SOC-E networking IP Core portfolio, a smooth integration is possible.

  5. Accurate Technical Support

    Whenever using MEZU-A7G8 along with SOC-E IP Cores customers will receive first hand detailed technical advice from SOC-E support team during development & integration phases.

Functionality Examples

  1. 8x 10/100M External Ports Managed Ethernet Switch With IEEE1588 (PTP)
  2. HSR/PRP Redundancy Box (RedBox)
  3. HSR Ring Coupler (QuadBox)

Technical Specifications

  • Communication Interfaces

    • Up to 8x GbE Ethernet PHY
    • Copper (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T) and fibre (100BASE-FX, 1000BASE-X, SFP) supported

  • Memory

    • 256 Mb Quad SPI Flash
    • 2Kbit EEPROM with unique MAC address available for the user
    • 512 bit user-programmable EEPROM for key storage with SHA-256 hash algorithm protection

  • SoC

    • AMD Artix-7 FPGA (different options available: XC7A35T / XC7A50T / XC7A75T / XC7A100T)
    • FPGA resources (XC7A100T)
      • 101,440 Logic Cells
      • 63,400 Look-up Tables (LUTs)
      • 126,800 Flip-Flops
      • Total Block RAM 4.86Mb

  • Other Interfaces

    • 26x PL GPIOs available at the board-to-board connector
    • 4x LED indicators: Power-up LED, FPGA “DONE” LED and 2 General purpose LEDs
    • UART, I2C and debug signals available at SO-DIMM.

  • Physical & Electrical Characteristics

    • VCC_VIN: Compatible with 3.3V
    • Power consumption: typically below 5W.
    • Dimensions: 67.6mm(L) x 55mm(W) x 5mm(H), Weight: ~16g
    • Component temperature range: -40°C to +85°C
    • Operating temperature range: Depends on the thermal dissipation system installed by customer (-40°C to +55°C recommended). 65ºC ambient temperature should be easily achievable
    • Storage temperature range: -40°C to +85°C

  • Warranty

    • 2 years

Evaluation & Design-in Kit

MEZU-A7G8 brick is an out-of-the box kit that allows evaluating MEZU-A7G8 module in a plug & play approach. Either if you are looking into evaluating the module itself, or a SOC-E IP Core, MEZU-A7G8 brick is the right choice for that.

The hardware can also be used later as a development platform, what allows to shorten the development phase.

  • Features:
    • 8x RJ45 and 8xSFP cages (combo) for 1000BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 10BASE-T, 100BASE-FX or 1000BASE-X
    • USB to UART bridge
    • 2x Buttons (GP I/O)
    • 2x PMOD connectors
    • JTAG Connector
    • 2x LEDs (GP I/O)
    • 2x SMA connectors (GP I/O)

 

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  • MEZU-A7G8 brick consists of the following package:
    • MEZU-A7G8 module (1x)
    • Carrier board (1x)
    • Reference firmware (predefined image) preloaded into non-volatile flash memory storage (1x)
    • Power supply (1x)
    • Fibre/Copper SFP modules (optional, purchased separately)

Downloads

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MEZU-A7G8 Module

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