EFM-01

Overview

The CESYS EFM-01 is a compact embedded FPGA module measuring 45x30x15mm, integrating a Xilinx Spartan-3E XC3S500E-4CPG132C and a Cypress CY7C68013A USB 2.0 controller. The module provides 50 accessible I/O balls via standard 0.1-inch headers. It supports configuration through USB 2.0, JTAG, or onboard SPI Flash. Power can be supplied via the USB bus or an external 5V source, with current limits of 500mA in bus-powered mode and 1000mA in self-powered mode.

Feature Summary

• Xilinx Spartan-3E XC3S500E-4CPG132C FPGA with 1,164 configurable logic blocks
• Cypress CY7C68013A USB 2.0 controller supporting slave FIFO and GPIF modes
• Dual power supply options: bus-powered (USB) or self-powered (external 5V)
• Configuration via USB, JTAG connector, or onboard M25P40 SPI Flash

Applications

• Rapid prototyping of USB-connected FPGA designs
• High-speed data transfer applications using USB bulk transfers
• Embedded system development requiring on-chip flash configuration
• Benchmarking and performance testing of FPGA logic

Procurement Notes

Verify that the specific order includes the USB cable and user manual as part of the standard delivery scope. Confirm compatibility with the required host software API for USB communication. Ensure the design constraints align with the 48MHz onboard clock frequency provided by the module.

Selection Notes

Select this module if a small form factor with integrated USB connectivity is required for Spartan-3E development. Consider the 50 available I/O pins against the total pin count of the CPG132 package. Verify that the 3.3V signaling level on all I/O banks meets the voltage requirements of the target peripheral devices.

Part Context

The EFM-01 serves as a development platform for the Xilinx Spartan-3E family, specifically utilizing the XC3S500E device. It bridges FPGA logic with host computers via the Cypress FX2 LP USB controller, enabling direct bitstream loading and data exchange without external programmers when configured correctly.

Replacement Considerations

No direct replacement parts are documented. Alternative solutions would require redesigning the USB interface and FPGA selection, as the EFM-01 integrates specific legacy components (XC3S500E and CY7C68013A) not commonly found in modern modules.

FAQ

How is the FPGA configured upon power-up?

The default configuration mode is booting from the onboard SPI Flash using SPI Master mode. If no valid design is stored, configuration must be performed via JTAG or USB.

What is the maximum current limit for the 3.3VCCO output?

In bus-powered mode, the 3.3VCCO output is limited to 500mA. In self-powered mode, it is limited by the external power supply but should not exceed 1000mA.

Can short packets be used in USB data transfers?

No, the EFM-01 does not support short packets. The PKTEND# signal must be statically set to HIGH, and dummy data should be added to meet 512-byte alignment requirements.