MAX10 In-System Programming (ISP)

[hbl]

We are using a MAX10 FPGA with a single compressed image and would like to re-program the FPGA in the field using ISP. Intel documentation as well as the  posts we came across on this forum talk about using JTAG. However, would it be possible to directly write to the internal CFM (configure as Read-Write) and reboot the FPGA? Does anyone have any hands-on experience with such an approach?

[sstrell]

This training goes into detail about RSU: https://cdrdv2.intel.com/v1/dl/getContent/653096?explicitVersion=true

And documentation: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/docs/programmable/683661/current/remote-system-upgrade-for-max-10-fpga.html

[hbl]

Doesn't answer my question! already know about this app note

[ShengN_Intel]

Hi,

You're right. Check this document link https://cdrdv2-public.intel.com/666495/ug-683865-666495.pdf (page 6):

You need to program the configuration data into the configuration flash memory (CFM) before internal configuration can take place. The configuration data to be written to CFM will be part of the programmer object file (.pof). Using JTAG In-System Programming (ISP), you can program the .pof into the internal flash.During internal configuration, Intel MAX 10 devices load the CRAM with configuration data from the CFM.

I think only through JTAG is possible.

Thanks,

Best Regards,

Sheng

[hbl]

I don't agree with your conclusion! According to the doc that you've referenced, the CFM can be programmed by the core in real-time mode (bypassing the JTAG). Now, the doc (as well as the rest of references on MAX10) are not very clear for the case of a single compressed image. Can the image be updated in real-time remotely?

Would it be possible to forward this question to a higher support level within Intel?

Thanks

[ShengN_Intel]

Hi,

Check this link https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/docs/programmable/683786/current/how-real-time-isp-works.html, In real-time ISP mode, the user flash memory (UFM), programmable logic, and I/O pins remain operational during the progress of the CFM programming. After programming is successful, the device waits for a power cycle to occur, and then the CFM contents are downloaded to SRAM as part of a normal power-up sequence. After tCONFIG time, the device enters user mode.

The real-time ISP mode requires the JTAG for CFM programming as well. ISP totally without JTAG is not possible. If you want to use real-time ISP mode, follow the steps in this link https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/docs/programmable/683786/current/real-time-isp-with-serial-vector-format.html

Thanks,

Best Regards,

Sheng

[ShengN_Intel]

Hi,

Do you have any further update or concern on previous post link community.intel.com/t5/Programmable-Devices/MAX10-In-System-Programming-ISP/m-p/1525452#M92624?

Thanks,

Best Regards,

Sheng