Combine Bitstreams and Other Files

You may want to store multiple bitstreams or other data into the same flash device on your board. For example, you can combine files for:

  • Multi-image configuration using the CBSEL pins
  • Internal reconfiguration
  • Programming FPGAs in a daisy chain
  • Programming a bitstream and other files such as a RISC-V application binary

You use the Combine Multiple Image Files dialog box to choose files to combine into a single file for programming. Choose one of the following modes:

Table 1. Modes when Combining Images
Mode Use For Number of Images Notes
Selectable Flash Image Multi-image configuration Up to 4 Use this mode if you want the CBSEL pins to control which image the FPGA loads. For this mode, you also need to choose Image Type > External Controller Flash Image. See Program Multiple Images (CBSEL)
Internal reconfiguration Up to 4 Use this mode if you want the internal reconfiguration pins to determine which image the FPGA loads. For this mode, you also need to choose Image Type > Remote Update Flash Image. See Program Multiple Images (Internal Reconfiguration)
Daisy Chain Daisy chains Any number of JTAG devices including those from other vendors 1. See Program a Daisy Chain
Generic Image Combination A bitstream and other files One bitstream and any number of other files See Program Multiple Images (Bitstream and Data)
Note: When you combine images for an MCU-controlled system or SPI passive daisy chain, the Programmer adds padding between the images as needed. Therefore, you can send the entire bitstream continuously until all devices in the chain are configured.
1 Efinity Programmer does not apply any constraints for combining multiple images. Efinix recommends that you run the IBIS simulation to check the signal integrity if you need to connect more than 4 devices in the same daisy chain.