Updating a Bitstream with Processor Data

ISE

This process invokes the Embedded Development Kit (EDK) tool BitInit, which reads information about the on-chip memory locations stored in the BMM file, and runs Data2MEM to combine your compiled software program into the FPGA configuration bitstream. This process generates a bitstream file that contains both your FPGA configuration and any processor software and data that resides in on-chip Block RAM.

You should only use this process when you create and manage software applications in XPS. In this case, the Update Bitstream with Processor Data process automatically uses the ELF file associated with the software project in XPS that was selected as Mark to Initialize BRAMs.

Note If you added an ELF file directly to the ISE® project, do not run this process. The ELF file is automatically included in the bitstream generated by the Generate Programming File process. If you are using SDK as your software development environment, add the ELF file as a source in your ISE project.

To Update a Bitstream with Processor Data

In Project Navigator, run the Generate Programming File process to generate the bitstream file for your FPGA hardware design.
In EDK, compile the embedded software application.
Note For more information, see the EDK Online Documentation.
In Project Navigator Processes pane, double-click Update Bitstream with Processor Data.

A download.bit file is generated.

After running this process, you can download the bitstream with the iMPACT tool. When the device configuration mode completes, the processor begins executing your embedded software application.

Note For more information on iMPACT, see the iMPACT Help. In the Help Viewer, click the Synchronize TOC button

to view all related Help topics.