Ethernet 1G/10G flexiMAC MACO Core

IP ExpressThe LatticeSCM Ethernet flexiMAC™ MACO™ IP core is a flexible packet framer and parser that can implement Layer2 (data link layer or MAC) functionality for various standards. The flexiMAC functionality complements the Layer1 (physical layer) multi-protocol functionality of the LatticeSCM Physical Coding Sublayer (PCS) and is implemented in MACO hard logic. This yields a complete Layer1/Layer2 solution for 1/10Gb Ethernet standards.

MACOThe flexiMAC core assists the FPGA designer’s efforts by providing pretested, reusable functions that can be easily plugged in, freeing designers to focus on their unique system architecture. These blocks eliminate the need to “re-invent the wheel,” by providing either an industry-standard Layer 2 flexible packet framer and parser or a Layer 1 multi-protocol functionality of the Physical Coding Sublayer (PCS) module. This proven core is optimized utilizing the LatticeSCM device’s MACO architecture, resulting in fast, small cores that utilize the latest architecture to its fullest.

Software Requirements

  • ispLEVER version 7.0 or later
  • MACO design kit
  • MACO license file

Features

  • 1Gb Ethernet MAC (full duplex only) standard support.
  • 10Gb Ethernet MAC standard support including clauses 46.3.3 (Error and Fault Signaling) of IEEE Draft P802.3ae (also known as reconciliation layer)
  • IP provided in encrypted netlist
  • ModelSim® simulation models and test benches available for free evaluation
  • In 10Gb Ethernet mode, the TX flexiMAC will frequently back-pressure the TX client when there are less than two client clock (156MHz) cycles between consecutive packets written to the TX EBR interface. Similarly, 10Gb Ethernet mode requires a minimum Inter-Packet Gap (IPG) of 16 bytes between incoming RX XAUI packets if the client side of the MAC is to perform an RX to TX loopback.

The Ethernet flexiMAC is an IPexpress user-configurable MACO IP core, which allows the configuration of the IP and generation of a netlist and simulation file for use in designs. All MACO IP is licensed free of charge.

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Block Diagram

Ethernet Flexi MAC Core

Performance and Size

Results for LatticeSCM
IPexpress User
Configurable Mode
SLICEs LUTs Registers External
Pins
sysMEM
EBRs
fMAX (MHz)
Gigabit 15< 4 19 144 2 125
10 Gigabit 42 4 72 278 4 125

1 Performance and utilization characteristics are generated using Lattice's ispLEVER® v7.0 software with LFSCM3GA25E-5F900C. When using this IP core in a different speed grade, performance may vary.

Ordering Information

Licensing

All MACO IP is free of charge. However a license key is required to enable simulation and bitstream generation. Please contact your local Lattice Sales Office to obtain your MACO IP license key.

Documentation

Quick Reference
Information Resources
TITLE NUMBER VERSION DATE FORMAT SIZE
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LatticeSCM Ethernet flexiMAC MACO Core User's Guide
IPUG48 01.8 9/11/2009 PDF 735.8 KB
TITLE NUMBER VERSION DATE FORMAT SIZE
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The FPGA as a Flexible and Low-Cost Digital Solution for Wireless Base Stations
3/1/2007 PDF 384.9 KB

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