FPGA Link GUI Tool

The FPGA Link GUI Tool is a graphical interface that enables users to visualize and configure connections between FPGA nodes and Ethernet switches. This tool is particularly useful for managing FPGA-to-FPGA networks, providing an intuitive, drag-and-drop interface for setting up custom configurations.

For more detailed information about FPGA-to-FPGA networking, please refer to the FPGA-to-FPGA Networking Documentation.

Using the Tool

• On the left sidebar, you’ll find various components:

  • Intel Nodes: Drag and drop to add Intel FPGA nodes to the workspace.
  • Xilinx Nodes: Drag and drop to add Xilinx FPGA nodes.
  • Ethernet Switches: Drag and drop to add Ethernet switches to the network.
  • Custom Labels: Annotate your design with custom labels for easier identification of nodes and connections.
  • Grid Toggle: Enable or disable grid view to aid in node placement.
  • Connection Types: Select from different types of connections via the dropdown menu to tailor the network design to your needs.

• Connecting Nodes:

  • Use the grey ports on each node to establish connections either within the same node or between different nodes.
  • Use the green ports to set up predefined configurations for connecting nodes.

• Editing and Configuring:

  • Utilize the Undo and Redo buttons at the top left corner to adjust your design as needed.
  • Once your configuration is complete, use the following options to save or share it:
    • Copy --fpgalink: Generates a command for use with the changeFPGAlinks bash command to configure your FPGA setup.
    • Copy URL: Copies a URL that links directly to your current configuration, allowing you to share or revisit it later.

• Importing and Exporting Configurations:

  • To visualize an existing configuration, use the Import Intel or Import Xilinx buttons to import a command and render it within the GUI.