In this paper, an extensive analysis of the resource-efficient PicoRV32 softcore, which implements the RISC-V instruction set, is performed. The focus of the analysis is on performance, energy efficiency and resource utilization. For this, both CoreMark and Embench are implemented as benchmark tools.In contrast to previous evaluations, a resource-constrained target platform (Low Power (LP) FPGA) is explicitly used for the evaluation, to demonstrate the applicability on very small embedded systems. Furthermore, all configurations of the softcore are investigated, which helps in the estimation and subsequent configuration of the softcore and reveals significant bottlenecks like memory interface.

In this demo paper the recently started project SatelLight is introduced at an early stage. SatelLight utilizes LiFi (Light Fidelity) as a novel approach for intra-satellite communication. In future, satellite harness (physical connection of the internal components) can be reduced, immune to internal and external EMC interference and possible fully autonomous operation of components can be enabled. In addition to the presentation of the project scope, this demo paper presents a first LiFi-Transceiver prototype, which will be used for reliable data transmission in the further course of the project.

The use of Light Fidelity (LiFi) can enable the reduction of satellite mass by reducing the wiring harness while avoiding electromagnetic interference. In this paper, a LiFi-transceiver suitable for Telemetry and Telecommand (TMTC) intra-satellite communication is developed and evaluated. The focus of the implementation is on miniaturization and energy-efficiency. First test results with a simple Transimpedance-Amplifier and an investigation of the achievable eff. data rate depending on different distances and Error-Correcting-Codes and the energy-consumption of the developed transceiver are presented. The results show that the LiFi-transceiver achieves a payload data rate of 77.6 kbit/s with Error-Correcting-Code protection and thus can be used for a reliable TMTC communication within the satellite bus.