Programmable Logic

Programmable logic is a key component in the development of most hardware systems. The flexibility afforded by VHDL based design and automatic synthesis tools, field re-programmability and pin compatible device upgrades can provide a compelling argument for their use in all but the simplest of systems. SRAM based FPGAs provide options in the range of 20 thousand to 6+ Million equivalent gates with specialist embedded functionality ranging form high speed interfaces through to full SoC processors.

The cost point for the new generations of FPGA devices can make them effective even in medium volume applications. As volumes increase metalisation based "hardwired" devices may be used. For extremely large volumes a full custom ASIC design can provide a significant unit cost reduction but carry significant NRE and development time penalties.

At the other end of the spectrum small PLDs (CPLDs) can be effective. Frequently these are combined with FPGA devices where the host processor is used for FPGA configuration. CPLDs also offer solutions where low power operation is required.