PYNQ-Z2 Development Board

The PYNQ-Z2 Development Board is a versatile embedded computing platform based on the Xilinx Zynq XC7Z020 SoC. It allows students, makers, and researchers to harness the speed of programmable FPGA logic using high-level Python libraries and standard interfaces.

Dual-core ARM and FPGA fabric

The onboard Zynq XC7Z020 SoC integrates a 650MHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor with Artix-7 equivalent programmable logic. This fabric provides 13,300 logic slices, 630 KB of fast block RAM, and 220 DSP slices for parallel computing tasks.

Python-driven hardware acceleration

Built specifically for the open-source PYNQ framework, the board allows designers to control hardware libraries via Python APIs directly in software. This accelerates development for machine learning, real-time signal processing, and low-latency control systems.

Integrated video and audio interfaces

The board features both HDMI sink (input) and HDMI source (output) ports for high frame-rate video applications. Audio capabilities include a 3.5mm line-in connector and a 3.5mm TRRS jack paired with a 24-bit I2S DAC.

Extensive expansion headers

Hardware expansion is supported via an Arduino shield header, a Raspberry Pi connector, and two standard Pmod ports. These headers break out digital FPGA I/O alongside six single-ended analogue inputs routed to the internal XADC.

Onboard memory and connectivity

System memory includes 512MB of DDR3 RAM on a 16-bit bus, 16MB of Quad-SPI flash, and a microSD slot. Connectivity features a Gigabit Ethernet PHY, a USB 2.0 host port, and onboard micro-USB circuits for JTAG programming and UART communication.

User controls and power options

The board includes 4 push-buttons, 2 slide switches, 4 user LEDs, and 2 RGB LEDs for direct interaction and debugging. It can be powered via standard USB or an external 7V to 15V power supply.