Dissecting the Need for Remote Storage in FPGA Systems

FPGA-based embedded systems are revolutionizing domains requiring high-performance computing power, such as AI-driven analytics, real-time sensor data processing, and high-throughput applications in industries like aerospace and automotive. Despite their capabilities, these systems face limitations connected to onboard storage. Components such as SSDs not only consume power but generate heat, and occupy physical space—factors that collectively impede performance beyond a certain threshold.

But innovation is the catalyst in tech development and here, remote-attached storage via NVMe/TCP emerges as a game-changer. It allows extending storage remotely, thereby offloading heat and power-draw challenges while keeping embedded designs lean and efficient.

The Mechanics of NVMe/TCP in FPGA Systems

The core concept of using NVMe over TCP (or NVMe/TCP) is to maintain the high-speed performance of NVMe SSDs over network connections without physically integrating the storage into the FPGA system. Design Gateway’s NVMeTCP IP Core facilitates this by mimicking local NVMe storage connections, even though the actual data handling occurs over 10G to 25G Ethernet.

This avoids CPU bottlenecks common in software-intensive processes, as the NVMeTCP IP Core offloads the NVMe-oF (NVMe over Fabrics) and TCP/IP processing into pure hardware. This hardware solution ensures the access to storage is not only faster but consistent and jitter-free – a critical requirement for real-time operations.

Why Remote-Attached Storage Is a Game Changer

• Heat and Power Advantages: By physically relocating storage, you eliminate the heat generated by storage devices within FPGA enclosures. This not only simplifies cooling strategies but also reduces the power consumption required to dissipate that heat, thereby increasing the overall power efficiency of the system.

• Scalable Storage Solutions: Scaling storage capabilities no longer demands redesigning the FPGA board. Storage can be augmented or upgraded directly on the server side, allowing for significant improvements in capacity and performance without physically altering the embedded system itself.

Strategic Applications of NVMe/TCP in Various Sectors

Aerospace Industries Using NVMe/TCP enables the offloading of substantial downlink datasets from aircraft via 25G Ethernet. Centralizing this data offers aerospace giants the ability to efficiently conduct analyses without the limitations of onboard storage.

Automotive Sector Automotive data recorders can leverage remote storage to channel bandwidth for more critical functions such as capturing high-definition inputs from cameras and LiDAR systems, facilitating advanced autonomous systems and telematics.

Artificial Intelligence and Inspection Technologies In high-speed AI environments, predictable and consistent write/read processes devoid of CPU-induced variability are essential. NVMe/TCP provides this stability, enhancing the efficiency of inspection systems that demand high-speed processing accuracy.

Integrating NVMe/TCP: What’s in Store for FPGA Users?

Adopting NVMe/TCP through solutions like Design Gateway’s IP Core isn't just about installing new protocols; it’s about redefining how data-heavy industries approach storage management. Whether it's enhancing power efficiencies or eliminating bottlenecks, the potential for performance improvement is significant.

For enthusiasts or projects that want to take that step further, Design Gateway offers a Free Evaluation File to explore firsthand how NVMe/TCP IP Core aligns with specific design requirements. You can read more about their offerings directly on Design Gateway's Blog.

In conclusion, NVMe/TCP is not just a stopgap solution to current problems but a step forward into a more scalable and adaptable future in semiconductor design. By leveraging such technology, engineers can make judicious choices today that prepare their applications for the evolutions of tomorrow.