Serval: A new chapter of on-board data processing with Versal ACAP-based units

In this paper, we introduce Serval – a data processing unit (DPU) which is designed for on-board data analysis, storage and handling with the use of specialized processing devices in a cold-redundant configuration. The Serval’s architecture is built upon the Versal Adaptive Compute Acceleration Platform (ACAP)-based DPU. This DPU leverages the advantages of the Versal ACAP, including a lower power consumption in AI applications to support in-orbit operation.