How can I implement a frequency sweep with an external signal source using ZCU111

I've been meaning to perform a frequency sweep on Xilinx ZCU111. What I want to achieve is the following:

I am using a DS SG250F RF signal generator, which is connected to the ADC and automated to sweep up to the nyquist rate. I am hoping to use Matlab to control ZCU111 and do a capture and save the data, e.g. an array of 8196 samples.

I read the Matlab example Transmit and Receive a Tone Using Xilinx RFSoC Device, and I have serveral questions.

1. I want to use the full bandwidth of ADCs, which is 4GSMS. The block parameter on RF data converter only specifies MSPS. Is there any limit on the sampling rate?
2. How would I by pass the visualizer and simply store the data for offline processing?

Am I using the correct tutorial? I'd appreicate any pointers, many thanks!

Answer 1

[Pratyush]

Hi Yihan,

To perform a frequency sweep on the Xilinx ZCU111 using MATLAB:

• Configure the ADC: Set the ADC sampling rate to 4 GSPS (4000 MSPS) to utilize the full bandwidth.
• Automate the Signal Generator: Use MATLAB to control the DS SG250F RF signal generator for the frequency sweep. This may involve the Instrument Control Toolbox or other communication methods.
• Capture and Store Data: Modify the MATLAB script from the tutorial to collect ADC data at the set sampling rate and store it in an array without using the visualizer.
• Save for Offline Processing: Save the captured data array to a file using MATLAB's 'save' or 'fwrite' for later processing.

The tutorial "Transmit and Receive a Tone Using Xilinx RFSoC Device" is a starting point, but you'll need to adapt it to your needs, specifically for capturing data at a high sampling rate and controlling the signal generator for the sweep. Use appropriate MATLAB functions or System objects for hardware communication, and replace placeholder functions in the example code with actual API calls for the ZCU111 and the signal generator.