Unboxing and Initial Setup

This section provides step-by-step instructions for unboxing, assembling, and performing initial setup of the X-Band Phased Array Development Platform.

Quick Start Guide

For complete setup of your X-Band platform, follow these guides in order:

  1. Hardware Assembly - Assemble all boards and make connections

  2. ZCU102 Configuration - Configure boot mode, USB, and network settings

  3. SD Card Configuration - Format, flash, and prepare the boot media

  4. EEPROM Programming - Program the FMC EEPROM for proper VADJ power

Tip

First Time Setup: Follow the guides above in sequence. Each step builds on the previous one.

What’s Included

The X-Band Phased Array Development Platform includes:

In the Box:

  • 1x AD9081-FMCA-EBZ - AD9081 MxFE Evaluation Board

  • 1x ADXUD1AEBZ - X/C Band Up/Down Converter

  • 1x ADAR1000EVAL1Z - X/Ku-Band Analog Beamforming Board (Stingray)

  • Power adapters for ADXUD1AEBZ and ADAR1000EVAL1Z (12V)

  • Interconnect cables and adapters

  • Documentation and quick start guides

Required (Not Included):

  • Xilinx ZCU102 Evaluation Board - Required for FPGA processing

  • Host computer for development and control

  • Additional RF test equipment (signal generators, spectrum analyzers, etc.)

Power Requirements

ADAR1000EVAL1Z (Stingray)

  • 12V DC power adapter

  • On-board power regulation provides all required voltages

ADXUD1AEBZ

  • 12V DC power adapter

  • On-board power regulation provides all required voltages

AD9081-FMCA-EBZ

  • Powered via FMC connector from ZCU102 board

  • No external power required

  • ZCU102 must provide adequate power via FMC

Configuration Overview

The X-Band platform requires several configuration steps before first use. Each topic has a dedicated guide:

SD Card Setup

Prepare the SD card with ADI Kuiper Linux operating system.

Steps Include:

  • Format SD card properly

  • Flash Kuiper Linux image

  • Copy boot files (BOOT.BIN, Image, system.dtb)

  • Verify boot operation

📖 See: SD Card Configuration Guide

ZCU102 Hardware Configuration

Configure switches and jumpers on the ZCU102 board for proper operation.

Key Settings:

  • Boot mode switches (SW6) for SD card boot

  • USB host mode jumpers for peripherals

  • UART connection for console access

  • Network configuration for remote access

📖 See: ZCU102 Configuration Guide

EEPROM Programming

Program the FMC EEPROM on the ADXUD1AEBZ interposer board.

Required For:

  • Proper 1.8V VADJ power to AD9081

  • FMC board identification

  • System initialization

📖 See: EEPROM Programming Guide

Configuration Quick Reference

Essential Settings Summary

Component

Configuration

Guide

ZCU102 Boot Mode

SW6: ON-OFF-OFF-OFF

ZCU102 Config

USB Host Mode

J7, J109-113 configured

ZCU102 Config

SD Card

Kuiper Linux + boot files

SD Card Guide

FMC EEPROM

Programmed for VADJ

EEPROM Guide

UART Console

115200 baud, 8N1

ZCU102 Config

Initial Power-On

Power-On Sequence:

  1. First: Power on ADAR1000EVAL1Z (12V adapter)

  2. Second: Power on ADXUD1AEBZ (12V adapter)

  3. Third: Power on ZCU102 (which powers AD9081-FMCA-EBZ)

  4. Fourth: Boot ZCU102 with reference design

Verification Steps:

  1. Check that all power LEDs are illuminated

  2. Verify ZCU102 boots properly with FPGA design loaded

  3. Test basic communication with each board

  4. Run initial system verification tests

See also

Detailed Instructions:

Safety Considerations

Warning

  • Always power down all equipment before making connections

  • Use proper ESD protection when handling boards

  • Verify power supply voltages before connecting

  • Do not exceed maximum RF input levels

Caution

  • The X-Band platform operates at high frequencies

  • Ensure proper RF shielding and safety practices

  • Be aware of local regulations for X-Band emissions

Note

For additional setup support, please refer to the individual evaluation board quick start guides linked in the Resources section.