From RF to AI: A Comprehensive Comparison of AMD RFSoC and Versal

18/08/2024

In the world of high-performance RF, computing and signal processing, AMD (formerly Xilinx) offers two flagship families of products: RFSoC (Radio Frequency System-on-Chip) and Versal. Both platforms are highly capable but designed for different use cases and target markets.

This article compares these two technologies and considers what Versal will bring to the integrated RFSoC platform.

Overview of RFSoC

RFSoC is a family of Zynq UltraScale+ products that integrate radio frequency (RF) data converters (ADCs and DACs) alongside programmable logic, ARM processors, and other system components. This high level of integration simplifies the design of RF systems, reduces latency, and minimises the need for external components.

Key Features of RFSoC:

Integrated RF Data Converters: High-speed ADCs and DACs with resolutions up to 14 bits and sampling rates exceeding 5 GSPS.
Programmable Logic: FPGA fabric for custom signal processing and system design.
Embedded Processors: Dual-core or quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processors for system control and application processing.
High Bandwidth Memory: Interfaces like DDR4 and High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) for data-intensive applications.
Power Efficiency: Optimised for power-sensitive environments, such as 5G wireless and radar systems.

Slipstream Engineering Design’s Integrated RFSoC ASTRO Module

Overview of Versal

Versal is AMD’s next-generation Adaptive Compute Acceleration Platform (ACAP), combining programmable logic with AI engines, scalar engines, and DSP engines. Unlike the RFSoC (until now), Versal is designed to provide heterogeneous computing capabilities for a broad range of applications, including AI, machine learning, networking, and data analytics.

Key Features of Versal:

AI Engines: Specialised blocks for accelerating machine learning and AI workloads (AI/ML),
Scalar Engines: Dual ARM Cortex-A72 processors for general-purpose computing,
Adaptable Engines: FPGA fabric for custom logic and domain-specific acceleration,
Network-on-Chip (NoC): High-speed interconnects for efficient data movement across the chip,
Comprehensive Software Support: Tools like Vitis AI and Vivado for design and optimisation,
Scalability: A wide range of devices targeting everything from edge to cloud applications.

Use Cases and Applications

RF and Digital System architectures decisions require a balance of many factors linked to the overall system aims to determine the right line up. Most RF System applications typically have RF chain, RF Conversion, digitisation followed by digital signal processing and application specific processing. The integration of RF Data converters into the Versal device will reduce components in the RF System line-up essentially removing an FPGA from the system architecture.

An independent comparison of RFSoC and Versal main features

What the combination will bring

Unparalleled flexibility in the system architecture will bring digital applications closer to the RF front end. A key difference between the GEN3 RFSoC and the new Versal RF is operations increasing to 18GHz frequency, opening the market for ultra-wideband applications within a single package.

RF CAPABILITY (as published by AMD *Subject to change)

14-bit RF-ADCs sample up to 32 GSPS with calibration, and 14-bit RF-DACs sample up to 16 GSPS
Direct RF-ADC and RF-DAC sampling up to 18 GHz @-3 dB
High RF analog density with up to 16 RF-DAC and 16 RF-ADC channels with quad RF-ADC configuration
Preliminary noise spectral density of -155 dBFS/Hz for 32 GSPS RF-ADC at 1.9 GHz and -35 dBm input.*

Figure 1: Semiconductor ATE RF Test *1

As well as improved RF performance, the integration Versal brings provides enhanced processing capability. The increase in FFT/iFFT will be welcomed by many applications. How the enriched processing capability at the RF Edge will evolve products and systems will be an interesting area to explore. It’s a massive step towards AI at the edge and all the benefits that may deliver.

As physical hardware architecture shrinks the design challenges move into the devices themselves. Understanding the constraints and key performance criteria over operational conditions will be critical designing the new RF Versal into product lines.

Conclusion

RFSoC and Versal are both ground-breaking platforms that have traditionally catered to different needs. RFSoC excels in RF-centric applications, offering unmatched integration and performance for communication and radar systems. Versal, on the other hand, is a versatRile platform for heterogeneous computing, delivering powerful AI and machine learning capabilities. Next generation products will have the choice of the combined power of Versal and RF.

Understanding the strengths and trade-offs of each system approach is key to making the best choice for your specific application. Speak to Slipstream Engineering Design, experts in system-level Digital RF design, to understand more about the benefits of RFSoC and Versal to your products.

Written by Philip Wilson, Managing Director of Slipstream Engineering Design Ltd

Slipstream Design Engineering Ltd provides innovative, high-performance sensing and wireless systems for global clients.

We specialise in accelerated research, design, and development of compact Digital RF technology. Our multidisciplinary team turns urgent customer concepts into manufacturing-ready radar, quantum, terrestrial and space-based communications products.

Discover ASTRO: Wideband Adaptive Radar Processor – Slipstream Design

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