SATA-IP, SATA III Storage for FPGAs
Add reliable SATA III storage to your FPGA design with a hardware host that runs without a CPU or external DDR, with optional file system support.
SATA-IP brings high-performance, stable storage to FPGA platforms by implementing the SATA transport and link layers in logic, with a host controller option that removes software from the data path. Designs can log sensor data, capture long recordings, and boot from SSD or HDD with predictable latency and simple RTL integration. Optional file system IP lets you write and read files directly, which shortens bring up and reduces firmware work.
Highlights
- SATA III 6 Gbps operation with stable throughput
- CPUless host option, no external DDR required
- Transport and link layer core, host controller option for full device access
- Simple user interfaces for register control and streaming data
- Proven reference designs on popular Altera Agilex and prior Altera boards
- Optional file system IP, exFAT and FAT32, for direct file writes and reads
- RAID style reference designs for multi-drive performance testing
Why Macnica?
- Architecture guidance for Agilex platforms, from resource budgeting to interface planning
- Adapter boards and lab setups to validate quickly
- SSD and HDD selection help for endurance, capacity, and performance goals
- Supply chain support from prototype to production
Key Specifications
- Interface: SATA III, 6 Gbps, compatible with SATA SSD and HDD
- Core options: Transport and link layer core, CPUless host controller core
- Resources: Pure RTL implementation, no external DDR for the CPUless host
- User logic: Register and FIFO or streaming interfaces for data in and out
- File systems: Optional exFAT and FAT32 hardware IP for file level access
- Reference designs: Single drive and multi drive RAID style examples on supported boards
Typical Applications
- Flight data and industrial logging where integrity and predictable latency matter
- Long duration video, audio, or sensor recording to SSD or HDD
- Embedded boot and bulk storage for measurement, test, and control systems
- Portable recorders and edge devices with limited software budgets
Evaluation Hardware
- FMC to SATA adapters for rapid bring up on evaluation boards
- FMC to M.2 and PCIe crossover adapters when combining SATA with NVMe or PCIe peripherals
- RAID evaluation boards to test multi drive performance and behavior
Supported Platforms
- Altera Agilex evaluation boards with documented reference designs
- Contact us to confirm device coverage and the right adapter set for your board
Get Started
Tell us your target drive type, capacity, and sustained throughput. We will recommend a core configuration, an adapter set, and a demo path on your Agilex platform.