FPGAs Boast More Block RAM And Higher Memory Bandwidth

A new family of FPGAs has more block RAM and higher memory bandwidth than its predecessors. The Virtex-E Extended Memory (Virtex-EM) family contains over one megabit of the company's True Dual Port Block RAM and also employs copper interconnect to increase performance and minimize power consumption. This combination is said to offer networking companies an architecture platform for 160 Gbps switch fabrics. The Virtex-EM architecture, like its predecessor, includes eight delay locked loops, distributed RAM, and a seamless interface to 20 voltage and signal standards, including LVDS and LVPECL differential signaling. The XCV812E and the XCV405E are priced at $235 and $101 each, respectively, for 50,000 units.