FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

The Sci-Compiler software you have purchased or wish to evaluate require a free MyCAEN+ account. The following help topics provide answers to the most commonly asked questions about Sci-Compiler requirements and features.

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Which Open FPGA boards are supported by Sci-Compiler?

Sci-Compiler has been designed to generate code for some particular hardware platform designed by CAEN. Presently, SCI-Compiler PRO license supports the following CAEN products:

  • DT5495 – V2495 Programmable Logic Units
  • DT5550 DAQ System with User Programmable FPGA and sequencer
  • DT5550W Weeroc ASICs Development system
  • R5560 128-channel Open FPGA Digitizer with differential inputs
  • R5560SE 128-channel Open FPGA Digitizer with single-ended inputs
  • DT5560SE 32-channel Open FPGA Digitizer
  • 2740–2745 Digitizer Families

For an up-to-date list please refer to the Supported Hardware Page.

Is Sci-Compiler Windows 11 ready?

Yes, Sci-Compiler is Windows 11 ready.

System Requirements

Sci-Compiler requires:

  • Windows 10 or later.
  • NET framework version 4.0 or higher.
  • Optional Intel Quartus and/or Xilinx Vivado according to the compatibility matrix with hardware given below.

Can I request a trial license more than once?

30-D trials are granted only once per account and per PC. You cannot run a trial license on the same PC that has been already in use for that purpose in the past, even if you connect it to a different account. If that is your case, you can request a trial license for the first time with your account but you will need to run it on another PC.

Does Sci-Compiler compile the firmware on my PC?

It can, but it does not have to: the compilation can run either on your own PC or on our servers.

Sci-Compiler generates the firmware from your block diagram, but turning that firmware into a bitstream for the FPGA always requires the tools of the FPGA vendor. Depending on which board you are targeting, that means Xilinx Vivado or Intel Quartus Prime. What you can choose is where those tools run.

  • On our servers. As long as your license is not expired, you can use the Remote Customization Service: the firmware is compiled on our servers, so you do not need to install, configure or license Vivado or Quartus on your computer at all.
  • On your PC. You install Vivado or Quartus yourself, in the exact version required by your board, and keep it configured in Sci-Compiler. A few boards also need additional Vivado licenses, such as JESD204 or 10 Gbps Ethernet.

Which of the two tools you need, in which version, and whether extra licenses are required depends on the specific product. The Supported Hardware Page lists all of this for every supported board, together with the availability of the Remote Customization Service.

I bought Sci-Compiler Smart in the past. Can I get an upgrade discount?

If you already own a Sci-Compiler Smart license, then you are eligible for an upgrade discount. To claim the discount, send an email to educational@caen.it with subject SMARTUPGRADE, and we will get back to you with the instructions.

What is Remote Customization Service?

Remote Customization Service (RCS) is a CAEN service where the user could use Sci-Compiler software to compile using remote computing resources, eliminating the need for users to procure, configure, or manage resources themselves and It improves the writing of the FPGA firmware with a great time-to-value flexible resource that can be scaled up or down quickly.

CAEN Server are hosted in Italy, Viareggio (IT), providing high levels of security and control.

Is the Sci-Compiler license a one-time fee, or per year?

The license of Sci-Compiler is a hybrid model between the one-time purchase and the subscription model. With a license of Sci-Compiler, you can use Sci-Compiler for as long as you want and install the minor and major updates for one year. If you wish to install a new update to Sci-Compiler and use Remote Customization Service after that, you will need to renew your license. Click here to learn more.

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