Introduction to ADK-VA601 Versal™ AI Core Development Kit
Alpha Data, recognized for its innovative FPGA-based acceleration boards, has recently launched the ADK-VA601 Versal™ AI Core Development Kit for Space 2.0. This seminal development kit, encompassing a fully radiation-tolerant reference design in a deployable VPX format, is poised to empower space designers in forging the subsequent generation of adaptable processors for space applications. Moreover, a spaceflight-ready version of the core board is slated for availability.
Features and Capabilities
Integral to the ADK-VA601 is its adaptive System on Module (SoM) capability, proficient in on-board processing (OBP) and equipped for on-orbit reconfigurations. This paves the way for intriguing potentials such as multi-sensor data fusion, augmenting capacity, and synthesizing ground and space networks. The product launch is scheduled for the first quarter of 2024.
Space Integration and On-Orbit Processing
The design philosophy behind the ADK-VA601 is to seamlessly dovetail with the modular standards and on-orbit processing norms of the space industry. By doing so, it streamlines the trajectory to orbit deployment, integrating high-performance digital processing into orbit payloads. These encompass a wide spectrum, from high-resolution optical and radar imaging systems to sophisticated machine learning, artificial intelligence, and multi-sensor data amalgamation systems.
Collaborative Endeavors and Technical Aspects
The culmination of collaborative endeavors among industry titans such as AMD, Texas Instruments, EPC Space, and Teledyne e2v, the ADK-VA601 stands as a testament to technological synergy. Building upon the foundations laid by the ADK-VA600, this kit integrates the AMD XQR Versal AI Core VC1902 Adaptive System-on-Chip into the space domain. The entire assembly, encapsulated in a 220mm 6U Space VPX format, is radiation resilient. At its core lies the AMD Versal Adaptive SoC, bolstered by a state-of-the-art radiation-resistant power solution, sourced from Texas Instruments and EPC Space, and coupled with high-performance radiation-tolerant DDR4 memory from Teledyne e2v.
Expansion and Customization
Embedded within the board is a VITA 57.4 FMC+ interface on its front panel. This facilitates expansion scopes and customization avenues. Additionally, a VPX Rear Transition Module augments I/O adaptability, system surveillance, testing access, and target scrubbing functionalities. Conforming to nascent standards, the 6U Space VPX form factor guarantees smooth transitions, bridging the gap between laboratory development and deployment in formidable space terrains. This alignment ensures space designers a streamlined path to flight-worthy equipment.
Endorsements and Company Heritage
AMD’s Space Systems Architect, Ken O’Neill, acclaimed the holistic amalgamation of components in Alpha Data’s approach. The strategic integration into a 6U VPX form, equipped with embedded power and memory, furnishes designers with the leverage to expedite development cycles and realize flight hardware in a shorter timeframe. Established in 1993, Alpha Data continues to be at the forefront of FPGA-based acceleration board provision and spearheads the transition to modular standardized solutions for on-orbit processing.
