Recommended Free Tools
AMD Vitis Model Composer connects MATLAB/Simulink designs to synthesizable IP for AMD FPGAs and adaptive SoCs. To use that IP in a larger Vivado design, choose an implementation flow and target, configure the hardware interfaces, generate and package the module, then add it to Vivado IP Integrator. You need valid Vitis Model Composer and Vivado licenses; check AMD’s current UG1483 guide for supported MATLAB versions, operating systems, Vivado license tiers and installation requirements before starting.
What Vitis Model Composer generates
Vitis Model Composer is a MATLAB/Simulink add-on for designing and simulating hardware-accelerated algorithms graphically. AMD describes it as providing optimized AI Engine, HLS and HDL blocks and generating synthesizable hardware IP for AMD adaptive SoCs and FPGAs, including Versal devices with AI Engines. It is not simply a way to export an arbitrary Simulink model unchanged: the design must use a supported hardware flow and meet that flow’s implementation and interface requirements.
In the HDL flow, Model Composer can generate an AXI4-Lite slave interface and export a Model Composer module to the AMD Vivado IP catalog. That packaged module can then be integrated into a larger design in Vivado. Generation is one stage of the FPGA process; synthesis, implementation and bitstream generation continue in the normal AMD tool flow. AMD documents these capabilities in its Vitis Model Composer product information and UG1483.
Choose the implementation flow
HDL, HLS and AI Engine blocks are different ways to implement hardware, not interchangeable labels for the same output. Select based on the target device, design goals and team experience; the exact supported options and constraints depend on the device and software setup.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Approach | What it means for the design | Consider it when |
|---|---|---|
| HDL | Use the HDL workflow to generate synthesizable HDL-based IP and configure its interfaces. The documented flow supports AXI4-Lite slave-interface generation and export of a module to the Vivado IP catalog. | You need HDL-oriented implementation and packaged IP for integration in Vivado. |
| HLS | Use HLS blocks as a hardware implementation option within Model Composer. The appropriate device support, interface setup and achievable timing or resource use depend on the specific design and tool configuration. | Your team wants to build the design using the HLS-oriented flow and has checked its target-specific requirements. |
| AI Engine | Use AI Engine blocks for supported AMD devices, including Versal devices with AI Engines. They can be combined with programmable-logic HDL or HLS blocks in a heterogeneous design. | The target includes AI Engines and the architecture benefits from dividing work between AI Engine and programmable logic. |
AMD’s product information and tutorials describe these block families and heterogeneous workflows, but they do not establish a universal timing, area or performance winner. Evaluate those outcomes for the specific device, algorithm, constraints and tool configuration rather than assuming one flow is always faster or smaller.
Generate and integrate the IP
- Build and simulate the algorithm. Create the Simulink model using the appropriate Vitis Model Composer HDL, HLS or AI Engine blocks. Simulation helps check model behavior, but by itself does not establish that the generated design meets hardware timing or works correctly on a board.
- Check the installation and supported environment. Consult AMD’s Vitis Model Composer User Guide, UG1483 2026.1, for supported MATLAB versions and operating systems, Vivado license tiers, installation requirements, code generation and IP-module interfaces. The reviewed guide is dated June 23, 2026; use the guide corresponding to the software release you intend to install.
- Select the target. Choose the supported device or board for the design, then configure the hardware subsystem and required interfaces. There is no single board that applies to every Model Composer design; selection depends on the target device and system requirements.
- Configure and generate the hardware output. Set the design’s interface requirements and generate the HDL or other flow output. For an HDL module intended for Vivado reuse, configure the supported AXI4-Lite slave interface if needed and export the Model Composer module to the Vivado IP catalog.
- Integrate in Vivado. Add the packaged module to Vivado IP Integrator and connect it into the larger design. Then continue through synthesis, implementation and bitstream generation in the normal AMD flow.
- Verify at the depth your project requires. Use simulation to check model behavior; where hardware confidence is needed, plan for hardware co-simulation or board-level verification as appropriate. AMD’s tutorials cover simulation, code generation, AXI interfaces and IP Integrator, including examples for heterogeneous Versal designs.
Choose the target board and verification strategy
Start with the actual AMD device or platform required by the product, then check UG1483 for target-device and board selection guidance. Do not select a board merely because it appears in a tutorial: the sources establish no universally required board. Verify that the chosen target supports the intended HDL, HLS or AI Engine implementation and that its interfaces fit the surrounding system.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Simulation and hardware co-simulation serve different purposes. Simulation lets you examine modeled behavior without treating the result as proof of physical implementation. Hardware co-simulation adds a hardware-oriented verification step, but it should be chosen to answer a defined risk or validation need; it does not replace completing the Vivado implementation flow and verifying the finished system.
Similarly, a direct custom-code import and an optimized library block are not automatically equivalent choices. Use the relevant supported block or import route only after confirming that it matches the design’s target and interface needs. The evidence available here does not establish blanket performance or compatibility rankings for custom code versus library blocks.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Licenses, pricing and version requirements
AMD states that a valid Vitis Model Composer and Vivado license is required. Its 2026 product listing gives two Vitis Model Composer add-on prices:
| License option | Part number | AMD-listed price |
|---|---|---|
| Node-locked add-on | EF-MATSIM-ADDON-NL | $995, as listed by AMD in 2026; recheck current price and availability before purchase. |
| Floating add-on | EF-MATSIM-ADDON-FL | $1,995, as listed by AMD in 2026; recheck current price and availability before purchase. |
Those are the add-on prices stated on AMD’s product page, not a complete estimate of every license or cost a project may require. Confirm the applicable Vivado license tier and the current purchase terms directly with AMD.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
UG1483 2026.1, dated June 23, 2026, is the current guide reviewed for this article. It covers MATLAB and operating-system support, Vivado license tiers, installation, target selection, code generation and IP-module interfaces. Since compatibility is release-specific, check that guide against the precise MATLAB, Model Composer and Vivado versions you plan to use rather than relying on a generic version claim.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
AMD documentation to consult
- AMD’s Vitis Model Composer product information for product capabilities and license terms.
- AMD’s Vitis Model Composer User Guide, UG1483 2026.1, for supported environments, installation, target selection, code generation and IP interfaces.
- AMD’s Vitis Model Composer tutorials for simulation, code generation, AXI interfaces, IP Integrator and heterogeneous Versal examples.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
