OCTOPUS

What is Octopus?

Generally, to program or to upgdate a FPGA firmware, we use a remote methode (software) or a local methode (ByteBlaster,...). But in some cases, we can't access remotely the card and/or we have to reprogram a lot of cards (1000 pieces). In this case, the time to update firmware is a nightmare.

What do you think if we can update firmware of multiple cards in parallel ( reprogram eeprom or flash).

Octopus tool is able to control 8 JTAG chains in parallel....whouaaaw... Then you divide by 8 your time to reprogram cards (4 days come an half a day)..

How it works ?

The Octopus has a CompactFlash connector. The CompactFlash (FAT32 or FAT16 format) inserted contains file (SVF format) used to reprogram the FPGA eeprom or flash (ALTERA, XILINX svf files format were tested up to now). You can choose the file you want to execute by scrolling all the CompactFlash card. When the file is choosen, start the execution.

At the end the LCD screen indicates the JTAG chains controlled with success and those without success. The Octopus can control up to 8 JTAG chain.

For CMS/DAQ hardware , this file will explain you how to use it  and which file to choose.

Dominique Gigi PH/CMD  CERN 2008