Xilinx launches breakthrough Zynq RFSoC DFE for 5G radio mass deployment

     Xilinx, a global leader in adaptive and intelligent computing, announced the launch of Zynq® RFSoC DFE, a new class of ground-breaking adaptive radio platforms designed to meet evolving standards for 5G NR wireless applications. Zynq RFSoC DFE combines hardened digital Front End (DFE) modules with flexible programmable logic to create a high-performance, low-power and cost-effective 5G NR radio solution for a wide range of use cases across the low -, mid - and high-band spectrum. Zynq RFSoC DFE provides the best technical balance between the cost-effectiveness of ASics with hardened modules and the flexibility, scalability and time-to-market advantages of programmable and adaptive SOCs.

     The solutions required for 5G radio must not only meet the bandwidth, power, and cost challenges of widespread deployment, but must also accommodate three key 5G use cases: Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), large-scale machine-like communications (mMTC), and ultra-reliable low-latency Communications (URLLC). In addition, solutions must be able to scale with evolving 5G standards, such as OpenRAN (O-RAN), and new disruptive 5G business models. Zynq RFSoC DFE integrates DFE application-specific modules hardened for 5G NR performance and power saving requirements, while also providing the flexibility to combine programmable adaptive logic to provide a future-proof solution for the growing 5G 3GPP and O-RAN radio architectures.

     Liam Madden, executive vice president and general manager of Xilinx's Wired and Wireless business unit, said: "To meet the special needs of 5G, Xilinx has for the first time in its history launched a radio platform that hards application-specific IP rather than adaptive logic. As 5G-related market demands evolve, integrated RF solutions will need to adapt to future standards. The Zynq RFSoC DFE provides the best balance between flexibility and fixed function IP."

     Compared to the previous generation, Zynq RFSoC DFE improves unit power performance by up to two times and is capable of scaling from small cells to massive MIMO (mMIMO) macrocells. The solution is a unique direct RF sampling platform that enables carrier aggregation/sharing, multi-mode, multi-band 400MHz instantaneous bandwidth across all FR1 and emerging bands up to 7.125GHz. When used as a mmwave IF transceiver, the Zynq RFSoC DFE provides instantaneous bandwidth of up to 1600 MHz. Zynq RFSoC DFE's architecture enables customers to bypass or customize hardened IP modules. For example, customers can either leverage Xilinx's field-proven DPD that supports existing and emerging GaN Pas, or plug in their own unique DPD IP.

     Dimitris Mavrakis, Senior Research Director for 5G at ABI Research, said: "As commercial 5G deployments and new use cases continue to evolve, it is critical for the entire supply chain to provide suppliers with flexible components to create cost-effective, adaptable and future-proof devices. OpenRAN, in particular, is more demanding in this regard, and flexible design is crucial to its success. Zynq RFSoC DFE provides a balance between hardening and adaptive programmable logic, a unique product that combines the cost benefits typically found in ASics with the design flexibility and customization benefits found in FPgas."