Xilinx IP Remote Interface

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IP Remote Interface

With the Xilinx IP Remote Interface, IP providers have the option to create and package parameterizable cores. This interface allows an IP provider to create a custom GUI and executable that can be designed to collect the information needed to create a core. The information collected in the GUI is passed to an executable which can select from a set of fixed functions, HDL source code with generics, or simply write a structural netlist. These cores are then accessible to the customer through the Xilinx CORE Generator system

By designing a GUI that uses the customer input parameters to simply select a fixed netlist, the IP provider can guarantee that the solution delivered to the customer is from a qualified, limited set. This allows the IP provider to fully test and verify the selected solutions. The IP provider has the flexibility to deliver to customers, through the Xilinx CORE Generator system, a core that has a number of solutions, but in a controlled, supportable, and secure method.

An IP provider can also create a GUI that collects the input variables, which are then used to modify generic variables in VHDL or Verilog source code. This source code can be synthesizable behavioral or structural code. This source code is modified and then deposited in to the customer's project directory by the Xilinx CORE Generator system. The customer would instantiate this core just like any other hierarchical HDL modules they may have.

IP providers may also use the IP Remote Interface to parameterize and run some algorithmic code that writes as an output file a supported netlist. They can develop algorithms that can write VHDL, Verilog, EDIF or even C++.

When IP providers deliver a single, fixed core from a set of fixed cores, they can also apply a Xilinx encryption algorithm to it. The Xilinx tools can read this file, but will protect the content from being viewed or exported in clear text. The Xilinx Foundation Series simulator can perform secure functional and timing simulation using these secure encrypted netlist cores.

Through the IP Remote Interface, IP providers can also apply standard industry licensing and encryption methods. For example an IP provider could encrypt their source code, and then by using a decryption method, deliver a custom parameterized solution with out exposing or compromising their source code. An IP Provider could also require that the first GUI input be a serial number or password. Even standard license file or security block can be implemented.

One of the more powerful features of the IP Remote Interface is that it can be used to create cores which, when installed in the CORE Generator's IP tree, can launch applications that access files and programs on the Internet. IP providers can use this feature to control access to their source files. Having the ability to update and patch any of their cores allows IP providers to provide their customers with the latest and most up-to-date cores. Not only does this keep the customers current, it makes supporting the cores easier.

The IP Remote Interface allows IP providers to leverage the Internet's capability to securely authenticate customers. This security can be used to control access. It can also be used to collect payments using E-commerce. In one scenario, IP providers could authenticate a customer with a password, charge the customer account using E-commerce, gather the customer's input parameters through a web GUI, modify behavioral HDL source code, run a synthesizer on their server, write the EDIF netlist, call the Xilinx encryption API, and post back to the customer a secure encrypted netlist and compiled behavioral model.

Request the IP Remote Interface Tool Kit
The Xilinx IP Remote Interface Tool Kit is now available to IP Developers. To be informed about the security and encryption features that are available in the IP Remote Interface, an NDA will need to be executed. Some of the other features available may also require an NDA.

If you would like to be contacted about getting access to the IP Remote Interface, please click on the Contact Me About IP Remote Interface Access link. A Design Reuse Team member will contact you.