FPGA Softcore Processors and IP Acquisition

  • 4.1
Approx. 10 hours to complete

Course Summary

Learn how to design and implement FPGA-based softcore processors and IP cores for digital systems using VHDL and Verilog HDL.

Key Learning Points

  • Learn the basics of FPGA and softcore processors
  • Design and implement digital systems using VHDL and Verilog HDL
  • Develop custom IP cores and softcore processors

Related Topics for further study


Learning Outcomes

  • Design and implement digital systems using FPGA-based softcore processors
  • Develop custom IP cores and softcore processors for digital systems
  • Understand the basics of FPGA and softcore processors

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

  • Basic knowledge of digital systems
  • Familiarity with VHDL or Verilog HDL

Course Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Course Format

  • Online
  • Self-paced

Similar Courses

  • FPGA Design for Embedded Systems
  • Advanced FPGA Implementation

Related Education Paths


Related Books

Description

This course will introduce you to all aspects of development of Soft Processors and Intellectual Property (IP) in FPGA design. You will learn the extent of Soft Processor types and capabilities, how to make your own Soft Processor in and FPGA, including how to design the hardware and the software for a Soft Processor. You will learn how to add IP blocks and custom instructions to your Soft Processor. After the Soft Processor is made, you learn how to verify the design using simulation and an internal logic analyzer. Once complete you will know how to create and use Soft Processors and IP, a very useful skill.

Knowledge

  • Create a Nios II softcore processor hardware design using the Altera development flow
  • Understand the benefits and steps of implementation of a custom instruction in the Nios II soft processor.
  • List the types of IP available for FPGAs
  • Use simulation with ModelSim to verify an FPGA Design

Outline

  • Softcore Processor Development Flow
  • Course Introduction
  • Create a Soft Processor
  • Soft Processor Advantages
  • Soft Processor Flows
  • Soft Processor Architectures, Part 1
  • Soft Processor Architectures, Part II
  • Nios II Development, Part I
  • Nios II Development, Part 2
  • Platform Designer Live Demo
  • Nios II: Compilation
  • Nios II: Customization
  • FPGA Softcore Processors and IP Acquisition Assessment Strategy
  • Module 1 Quiz
  • Writing Software for Softcore Processors
  • Introduction to Software for Soft Processors
  • Software for Soft Processors
  • Introduction to the NIOS IDE
  • C Programming for Soft Processors
  • Building C Programs
  • Programming Soft Processors
  • Memory in the NIOS II
  • Accessing Custom instructions
  • Week 2 Readings
  • Module 2 Quiz
  • IP Acquisition and Integration
  • Introduction to IP Cores
  • Microsemi IP Cores
  • Intel Altera IP Cores
  • Xilinx IP Cores
  • Lattice IP Cores
  • Intel Altera IP Cores for Qsys
  • Week 3 Readings
  • Module 3 Quiz
  • Introducing ModelSim and Simulation for Verification
  • Introducing ModelSim and Simulation for Verification
  • Basics of RTL Simulation
  • Simulation with Altera ModelSim
  • Starting ModelSim from Quartus Prime
  • Testbenches for Verification
  • Designing for Simulation
  • Simulation for Verification
  • Logic Analysis with SignalTap II
  • Week 4 Reading
  • Module 4 Quiz

Summary of User Reviews

Learn about FPGA softcore processors and IP with this highly rated course on Coursera. Users praise the course for its comprehensive content and engaging teaching style, making it a top choice for those interested in the topic.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

Comprehensive content

Pros from User Reviews

  • Engaging teaching style
  • In-depth explanations of concepts
  • Hands-on assignments for practical application
  • Great for beginners and experienced learners alike

Cons from User Reviews

  • Content can be overwhelming for some
  • Lack of interaction with instructors
  • Limited support for technical issues
  • Not suitable for those without prior knowledge of FPGA technology
English
Available now
Approx. 10 hours to complete
Timothy Scherr
University of Colorado Boulder
Coursera

Instructor

Timothy Scherr

  • 4.1 Raiting
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