Description
FMC-4SFP+ Adapter for FPGA Connectivity
The FMC-4SFP+ Adapter is designed to extend the communication capabilities of FPGA based systems by enabling high speed optical interfaces through SFP and SFP+ modules. As a High Pin Count FMC board built according to the VITA 57.1 specification, it integrates seamlessly with a wide range of FPGA carrier platforms used in research laboratories, industrial systems, and data acquisition environments.
This adapter provides support for up to four SFP or SFP+ modules, allowing systems to establish multiple optical communication links simultaneously. These links are commonly used for high bandwidth data transmission between FPGA platforms, network infrastructure, and instrumentation systems. The adapter enables reliable and flexible connectivity in applications that require fast data exchange and stable communication performance.
Flexible Voltage Compatibility
A key advantage of the FMC-4SFP+ Adapter is its flexible voltage compatibility with various FMC carrier boards. All module pins are translated to the FMC carrier voltage through the VADJ rail, which can operate between 1.5 volts and 3.3 volts. This capability allows the adapter to operate on many different carrier platforms without additional voltage conversion hardware.
The low operating voltage design also helps improve compatibility with modern FPGA boards that require efficient power management and stable signal integrity. As a result, the adapter can be integrated easily into existing FPGA based systems.
Integrated Clock Generation
The FMC-4SFP+ Adapter includes an integrated LVDS clock oscillator that supports adjustable frequency generation. The oscillator can operate across a wide frequency range from 10 megahertz up to 280 megahertz. This clock source provides reliable timing for communication interfaces and ensures accurate synchronization between connected devices.
Users can configure the oscillator through a DIP switch or through the I2C interface, offering both manual and software controlled configuration options. Automatic configuration features also allow the module to operate in stand alone environments without complex initialization procedures.
Design and System Integration
The FMC-4SFP+ Adapter is engineered to support flexible system integration. Its component layout is optimized so that it remains compatible with carrier boards that may have components placed beneath the FMC module. This design approach allows the adapter to be installed in systems where board spacing and layout constraints are important.
The SFP cage placement is also designed carefully to ensure that it fits within carrier boards without requiring modifications to the front panel structure. This simplifies integration and reduces system design complexity.
Two main versions of the adapter are available. A dual channel version offers two SFP+ connections and includes a standard FMC bezel for front panel mounting. The quad channel version provides four SFP+ connections and is designed without a front bezel to support different integration requirements.
With its flexible configuration, integrated clocking system, and support for multiple high speed optical interfaces, the FMC-4SFP+ Adapter provides a reliable solution for expanding communication capabilities in FPGA based platforms.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
| Product Type | FMC SFP and SFP+ Communication Adapter |
| Form Factor | FPGA Mezzanine Card VITA 57.1 |
| Interface Type | High Pin Count FMC |
| Number of Channels | Dual or Quad channel options |
| Maximum SFP Modules | Up to 4 SFP or SFP+ slots |
| Communication Medium | Optical communication via SFP modules |
| Operating Voltage | 1.5 V to 3.3 V via FMC VADJ |
| Clock Oscillator | LVDS oscillator with adjustable frequency |
| Clock Frequency Range | 10 MHz to 280 MHz |
| Oscillator Control | DIP switch or I2C interface |
| Configuration | Automatic module configuration supported |
| Mechanical Design | Compatible with carriers with underside components |
| Mounting | Fits standard FMC carrier boards |
| Available Versions | FMC-2SFP+ dual channel and FMC-4SFP+ quad channel |
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