Flexible Interconnect for Multi-Protocol Master-Slave Systems in Bluespec SystemVerilog
P Abhiram, Arun Kumar, V R Adersh, Gavini Sreelatha · 2024
This paper presents the design and implementation of a flexible crossbar switch for multiprotocol interconnects in Bluespec SystemVerilog (BSV). Unlike traditional interconnect systems that support limited protocol combinations or require extensive modifications for scalability, the proposed design dynamically adapts to diverse master-slave configurations and varying bit-widths, offering customizable memory mapping and seamless protocol bridging to address a wide range of SoC application requirements. The crossbar switch supports multiple masters and slaves with different protocols, including AXI, AXI-Lite, and APB. The design employs a modular approach, comprising separate modules for the AXI crossbar, AXI - to- AXI - Lite bridge, and AXI - to- APB bridge. The paper describes the architecture, implementation, and testing of the crossbar switch, highlighting its flexibility and scalability in supporting diverse AMBA protocols.