Tag :: FPGA

MetaMux is an FPGA-based feature available on Arista’s 7130 platforms. It performs ultra-low latency Ethernet packet multiplexing with or without packet contention queuing. The port to port latency is a function of the selected MetaMux profile, front panel ingress port, front panel egress port, FPGA connector ingress port, and platform being used.

MetaWatch is an FPGA-based feature available for Arista 7130 Series platforms. It provides precise timestamping of packets, aggregation and deep buffering for Ethernet links. Timestamp information and other metadata such as device and port identifiers are appended to the end of the packet as a trailer.

MultiAccess is a low latency FPGA-based Ethernet firewall or multiplexer/demultiplexer with configurable port ACLs (PACL). The MultiAccess FPGA application, which is delivered as an EOS extension in a “swix” file format includes various profiles which dictate and instantiate supported interface speeds and features. All MultiAccess profiles support MAC and IP PACLs, in either ingress, egress, or ingress and egress directions. Profiles may also perform packet multiplexing and demultiplexing, storm control, firewalling, and VLAN tunneling, all across various speeds and port layouts. MultiAccess’s port to port latency is a function of the selected MultiAccess profile, interfaces being used, interface configuration, and the platform itself. For latency details, please refer to the Latencies section of this TOI.

SwitchApp is an FPGA-based feature available on compatible Arista 7130 devices. It performs ultra low latency Ethernet packet switching. Its packet switching feature set, port count, and port to port latency are a function of the selected SwitchApp profile. Detailed latency measurements are available in the user guide on the Arista Support site.

Arista’s DCS-7130LBR series of switches (https://www.arista.com/en/support/toi/eos-4-30-2f/15900-dcs-7130lbr-48s6qd-series) are capable of supporting SwitchApp, which is an FPGA-based L2/L3 switch. However, as the switch would then contain two switch ASICs (one traditional switch ASIC, and one FPGA-based switch) physically upon loading the SwitchApp application, there are certain limitations and nuances along with its usage. This document intends to explain some of the details.

WRAS is an EOS extension to automatically manage the layer 1 connectivity of the MetaWatch's WhiteRabbit interface.