Chapter 5: Implementing systems with FPGAs

This chapter dives into the process of designing and implementing systems with FPGAs. It begins with a description of the FPGA compilation software tools that convert a description of a logic design in a programming language into an executable FPGA configuration. We will discuss the types of algorithms best suited to FPGA implementation and suggest a decision approach for determining whether a particular embedded system algorithm is more appropriately implemented using a traditional processor or with an FPGA. The chapter ends with the step-by-step development of a baseline FPGA-based processor project that will be expanded to implement a high-speed digital oscilloscope using circuitry and software developed in later chapters.

After completing this chapter, you will have learned about the processing steps performed by FPGA compilation tools and will understand the types of algorithms best suited to FPGA implementation. You will know how...