System-on-Module targets multi-channel RF applications

The XRF8 module and Avalon software suite enable production-ready system development using the Xilinx Zynq UltraScale+ RFSoC Gen3 for RF applications demanding small footprint, high-speed serial connectivity and real-time processing.

It is capable of RF direct conversion of signals with analogue bandwidth up to 6 GHZ

The XRF8 module can digitise 8 ADC channels at 6 giga-samples per second (GSPS) and generate complex (I/Q) waveforms through 8 DAC channels at 10 GSPS.

High-speed serial connectivity is available for 25G Ethernet and Xilinx Aurora protocol. Baseband processing and network interface are handled by the Xilinx UltraScale+ RFSoC integrated quad Arm Cortex-A53 processing subsystem and programmable logic.

Standard peripherals such as USB, Gigabit Ethernet and serial UART are included.

The module allows users to begin prototype and application development immediately and then to move to production quickly with the same hardware, which significantly reduces time to market.

It is well suited to support design work for radar, software-defined radio, beamforming, signal detection and jamming, and medical imaging applications.

“Developers require the latest, most advanced technology to deliver on their initiatives and projects,” said Jim Beneke, vice president of engineering and technology, Avnet. “Together with Xilinx, we created a production-ready module solution that frees developers to focus on the differentiating features of their products. This is our latest offering designed to accelerate time-to-market allowing developers to more quickly deliver real business value.”

“Combining high-speed digital and precision RF signals in a small form factor poses unique routing and isolation challenges,” said Mike Dunne, director of precision RF, Samtec. “The XRF8 module and companion carrier card leverage best-in-class RF and signal integrity design techniques to provide high-speed connectivity across the platform. System architects and designers can develop next-gen RF applications with confidence the XRF8 delivers the system performance needed.”

The Avnet XRF8 module is available for $22,995 (USD). A companion carrier card is also available for $4,995 (USD).