Introducing the Secure and Reliable PCIe104N Module for Critical Applications

The PCIe104N is a robust and secure solution centred around the Microchip PolarFire FPGA, tailored for industries where both performance and security are critical. It features the MPF500T-1FCG1152I FPGA from Microchip’s PolarFire series as the primary component, with the option to configure the module with the MPF300T-1FCG1152I device for specialised applications.

The PCIe104N module is designed in the PCIe104 form factor, offering a compact yet powerful solution. It features a 4-lane PCIe interface for fast data transfer and seamless communication with a host. The module also includes a stack-down connection for linking to a PCIe104-format host, making it well-suited for rugged, embedded environments. Additionally, it supports a custom mezzanine card connected to 104 I/O signals through the mezzanine connector (ASP-129637-02), providing flexibility and easy expansion for complex, high-performance systems.

Security is a key focus of the PCIe104N. It exclusively boots from the internal NVM FLASH to protect against unauthorised access. Moreover, modifications to the external SPI FLASH or internal NVM FLASH via the host interface are restricted, with any changes requiring JTAG access. This added layer of security helps safeguard critical data and prevent tampering.

The PCIe104N also offers several user interaction and monitoring features. It includes three tactile buttons—two user buttons and a reset button—for easy system control. Four power-good LEDs and two user RGB LEDs indicate system status and health.

For memory, the PCIe104N uses two industrial-grade DDR4 chips arranged in a 32-bit bus configuration, ensuring reliable and high-performance memory access. The external SPI Flash is available for user data storage but is intended for non-critical data to maintain system security. The module operates with a 5V input (3A max) and 12V power for fan operation, making it energy-efficient in power-constrained environments.

Designed to withstand harsh conditions, the PCIe104N is ideal for applications in aerospace, industrial automation, and other industries requiring high security, ruggedness, and flexibility. Whether handling secure communications, real-time data processing, or complex control systems, the PCIe104N offers a reliable and secure platform to meet the demanding needs of modern, mission-critical applications.

PCIe104N Store Page

Features

  • Main FPGA MPF500T-1FCG1152I PolarFire FPGA from Microsemi (now Microchip)
  • Option to assemble with an MPF300T-1FCG1152I device.
  • Module is in PCIe104 format with 4 lanes of PCIe interface to host
  • Module has a connection to the stack down host.
  • It is be able to connect to a PCIe104  format host, via a stack down connection and on the other side of the card it fits to a custom mezzanine card.
  • 104 IO signals routed to the mezzanine connector (ASP-129637-02)
  • Samtec QTE-014-01-F-D-DP-TR connector for accessing 4 additional transceivers, 1 pair of GPIO, clock capable I/Os, and reference clocks.
  • Module only boots from the internal NVM FLASH for enhanced security

 

  • For additional security there is a restriction on writing to or modifying the content of the external SPI FLASH and the internal NVM FLASH from the host interface. Only through JTAG, the flash content can be modified.
  • Three tactile buttons, two for the user, and one reset button.
  • FLASH can be accessed for write operation through JTAG only.
  • Four power good LEDs, Two User RGB LEDS.
  • The module uses industrial grade components.
  • Two industrial grade DDR4 chips for RAM organized as 32-bit bus.
  • External SPI Flash for user data storage only.
  • Input power 5V, 3A max. 12V – for fan only.

Block DIagram

Component Placement