Debugging ILA without a programmer on Zynq SoC

This article explores a method for debugging FPGA-based Zynq SoC designs using the Integrated Logic Analyzer (ILA) without requiring a physical connection via a JTAG programmer. The author details the process of configuring the Xilinx Virtual Cable (XVC), which enables the transmission of debug data over standard communication interfaces such as Ethernet or UART. The guide provides step-by-step instructions on building the necessary drivers and configuring the environment to connect to the Hardware Manager within the Vivado suite. This approach significantly simplifies the development and testing of embedded systems by enabling remote real-time logic debugging. The article is a valuable resource for engineers working with Xilinx platforms who aim to optimize their workflow and reduce reliance on specialized hardware for debugging tasks.