Why is the FPGA image for UHD different?

Hello,

I am using Matlab 2024A - update 4 with Communications Toolbox for UHD (B210 hardware). I noticed that the FPGA image download for the B210-UHD is different. What is the difference between the UHD image from Ettus and the Mathworks FPGA image?

Here is the line from my Matlab session.

linux; GNU C++ version 10.3.0; Boost_107800; UHD_4.2.0.0-vendor

UHD_4.2.0.0-vendor seems unique to Mathworks, is this correct?

Answer 1

[R]

Hi @Jay,

The MathWorks UHD image (UHD_4.2.0.0-vendor) is customized to integrate seamlessly with MATLAB and Simulink.

This includes additional features, patches, or modifications specific to MathWorks' requirements. For example, it includes specific patches to enhance the performance or functionality of the B210 hardware.

On the other hand, UHD versions from Ettus Research follow their standard versioning scheme and are primarily tested with Ettus Research's software and tools.

[Jay]

Thanks for the reply. Does Mathworks allow the FPGA to be modified using the HDL Coder toolset?

If so, how does one obtain this HDL code for reuse?

[R]

Yes, you can program both the processing system and programmable logic. By default, HDL Coder places the generated HDL files in the subfolders hdlsrc or hdl_prj within your current working directory. You can explore these folders to reuse the HDL code as needed.

Answer 2

[Kiran Kintali]

>> Does Mathworks allow the FPGA to be modified using the HDL Coder toolset?

Yes, if you have an FPGA/SoC on the board you can use HDL Coder to customize the hardware description and program the board.

You can also review this HDL Coder support package for NI hardware that may be related.

[Jay]

Thank you for your answer; your comments discuss the tools available for HDL development. I would like to state my question more clearly.

Does Mathworks make the Ettus B210 FPGA VHDL code available to users?

If so, where does one obtain the VHDL code from?

[Ben Cunningham]

@Jay FYI targeting the FPGA of many USRP radios is directly supported using HDL Coder and Wireless Testbench on Linux since MATLAB 24a.

To see which devices are supported for targeting (sorry not B210): Supported Radio Devices - MATLAB & Simulink

To learn more: Target NI USRP Radios - MATLAB & Simulink