Forum Discussion

APaga1's avatar
APaga1
Icon for New Contributor rankNew Contributor
5 years ago

When should we use hard external memory interface in the DDR3 SDRAM controller?

Hello,

I am trying to use the NIOS II SIMPLE Socket Server design template to write data from a file to the SDRAM. Right now we are facing issue to fit the design along with our algorithm on to Cyclone V GT board. The resources are cramming up. Will the usage of hard external memory interface can improve our situation in any aspect? Under what circumstances to we get to see the benefits of the same? If possible, can I get any reference design that uses this hard memory controller?

2 Replies

  • yoichiK_altera's avatar
    yoichiK_altera
    Icon for Contributor rankContributor
    5 years ago

    Hi

    Your understanding is correct. Using the hard memory controller has the advantage in FPGA resource usage because it is hardend block.

    When you create the IP via Megawizard GUI you will be asked whether to create the example design or not. if you click yes example design will be generated automatically.

    • APaga1's avatar
      APaga1
      Icon for New Contributor rankNew Contributor
      5 years ago

      Thank you for your response @yoichiK_intel . Whenever I am enabling "Enable Hard External Memory Interface" in the DDR3 SDRAM Controller with UniPHY in the platform designer, I am getting a series of errors as shown in the screenshot. I feel that the default settings are going for a toss once I have enabled the option. I am looking for a reference design from Intel that has used this hard external memory interface so that I can get a better idea.