Overview
The DCA1000EVM is a data capture card designed by Texas Instruments to interface with their 77GHz xWR1xxx EVM (Evaluation Module). This card enables the streaming of ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) data over Ethernet, facilitating real-time data capture and analysis. It is particularly useful for applications involving radar sensors, such as those in the AWR and IWR series. The DCA1000EVM is built around the Lattice FPGA LFE5UM-85F-8BG381I and includes various interfaces and features to support comprehensive data capture and streaming.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| FPGA | Lattice LFE5UM-85F-8BG381I, 84K LUTs, 3744 Kbits Block RAM, 4 PLLs |
| Memory | 2GByte DDR3L, 16MByte SPI Flash |
| Interfaces | 1Gb/s RGMII Ethernet, USB, JTAG, SPI, UART, I2C, MicroSD (not supported) |
| LVDS Data Rate | Up to 600 Mbps, supports 2 and 4 lanes |
| Power Supply | 5-V power from external DC adapter or xWR1xxx EVM |
| Board Dimensions | 90 mm × 102 mm × 1.6 mm, 10-layer board with epoxy fiberglass FR4 material (UL94V-0 Certified) |
| Connectors | 60-pin Samtec high density connector, RJ45 Ethernet jack |
| Switches and LEDs | 1×3 and 1×8 DIP switches, 4 push-button switches, 9 user LEDs |
Key Features
- Real-time data capture and streaming of LVDS data over 1-Gbps Ethernet.
- Supports both 2-lane and 4-lane LVDS interfaces for AWR/IWR radar sensors.
- Configurable via onboard switches or GUI/library.
- Includes USB interface for SPI, UART, and I2C through FTDI chip.
- MicroSD card interface (currently not supported).
- JTAG interface through FTDI FT2232HL chip.
- RoHS, Pb-free, and REACH-compliant design.
- Industrial-grade temperature range.
- Maximum current rating of 700 mA.
Applications
The DCA1000EVM is designed for various applications involving radar sensors, particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors. It supports lab and mobile data collection scenarios, making it versatile for different use cases. Key applications include:
- Real-time data capture from AWR and IWR radar sensors.
- Data visualization and processing using the MMWAVE-STUDIO tool.
- Algorithm development for radar sensor data.
- Automotive and industrial automation systems requiring high-speed data capture and analysis.
Q & A
- What is the primary function of the DCA1000EVM?
The primary function of the DCA1000EVM is to capture and stream LVDS data from TI's xWR1xxx EVM over Ethernet in real-time.
- Which FPGA is used in the DCA1000EVM?
The DCA1000EVM uses the Lattice FPGA LFE5UM-85F-8BG381I.
- What types of LVDS interfaces does the DCA1000EVM support?
The DCA1000EVM supports both 2-lane and 4-lane LVDS interfaces.
- How is the DCA1000EVM powered?
The DCA1000EVM can be powered using a 5-V external DC adapter or from the xWR1xxx EVM through the 60-pin connector.
- What is the maximum data rate supported by the DCA1000EVM?
The DCA1000EVM supports LVDS data rates up to 600 Mbps.
- What is the purpose of the 60-pin Samtec high density connector?
The 60-pin Samtec high density connector is used to interface with the xWR1xxx EVM, providing high-speed LVDS data, control signals, and DMM interface signals.
- Can the DCA1000EVM be configured via software or hardware?
The DCA1000EVM can be configured via both onboard switches and software using a GUI/library.
- What is the role of the MicroSD card interface on the DCA1000EVM?
The MicroSD card interface is currently not supported but is intended for future use.
- Is the DCA1000EVM compliant with environmental regulations?
Yes, the DCA1000EVM is RoHS, Pb-free, and REACH-compliant.
- What is the maximum current rating of the DCA1000EVM?
The maximum current rating of the DCA1000EVM is 700 mA.
