FPGA computing systems: Background knowledge and introductory materials from Coursera

This course is for anyone passionate in learning how a hardware component can be adapted at runtime to better respond to users/environment needs. This adaptation can be provided by the designers, or it can be an embedded characteristic of the system itself. These runtime adaptable systems will be implemented by using FPGA technologies.

Within this course we are going to provide a basic understanding on how the FPGAs are working and of the rationale behind the choice of them to implement a desired system.

This course aims to teach everyone the basics of FPGA-based reconfigurable computing systems. We cover the basics of how to decide whether or not to use an FPGA and, if this technology will be proven to be the right choice, how to program it.

This is an introductory course meant to guide you through the FPGA world to make you more conscious on the reasons why you may be willing to work with them and in trying to provide you the sense of the work you have to do to be able to gain the advantages you are looking for by using these technologies.

We rely on some extra readings to provide more information on the topic covered in this course.

Please NOTE that most of the time, these documents are provided through the IEEE Xplore Digital Library, which means that, to access them, you have to have a valid IEEE subscriptions, either does by yourself or through your university/company.

The course has no prerequisites and avoids all but the simplest mathematics and it presents technical topics by using analogizes to help also a student without a technical background to get at least a basic understanding on how an FPGA works.

One of the main objectives of this course is to try to democratize the understanding and the access to FPGAs technologies. FPGAs are a terrific example of a powerful technologies that can be used in different domains. Being able to bring this technologies to domain experts and showing them how they can improve their research because of FPGAs, can be seen as the ultimate objective of this course. Once a student completes this course, they will be ready to take more advanced FPGA courses.

What's inside

Syllabus

A Bird's Eye View on Adaptive Computing Systems

Nowadays the complexity of computing systems is skyrocketing. Programmers have to deal with extremely powerful computing systems that take time and considerable skills to be instructed to perform at their best. It is clear that it is not feasible to rely on human intervention to tune a system: conditions change frequently, rapidly, and unpredictably. It would be desirable to have the system automatically adapt to the mutating environment. This module analyzes the stated problem, embraces a radically new approach, and it introduces how software and hardware systems ca ben adjusted during execution. By doing this, we are going to introduce the Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) technologies and how they can be (re)configured.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches reconfigurable hardware systems, which is relevant to FPGA technology in digital design

Taught by recognized instructors who have published research on FPGAs

Provides a comprehensive understanding of FPGAs, including their implementation and programming

Covers advanced topics such as runtime reconfiguration and system design flows

Offers hands-on examples and exercises to reinforce learning

May require purchase of extra readings, which can be an additional cost

Designed for beginners with no prerequisites, but some background in hardware design may be helpful

Aims to make FPGA technologies more accessible to non-technical students

Reviews summary

Accessible introduction to fpga fundamentals

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in FPGA computing systems and the principles of reconfigurable computing. Many found the explanations clear and easy to follow, especially appreciating the use of analogies to simplify complex topics for those without a technical background. The course structure offers a good overview, covering everything from the basics of how FPGAs work to design flows and future directions. While generally well-received for its conceptual introduction, some reviewers noted that the course is primarily theoretical and serves best as background knowledge before diving into practical application.

Prepares for more advanced study.

"This course definitely prepares you to take more advanced FPGA courses."

"I feel ready to explore more practical or in-depth material now."

"It serves perfectly as the stated 'introductory material' before specializing."

"Gives you the context needed to understand other FPGA resources."

Covers a wide range of relevant topics.

"The course covers a surprisingly wide range of topics, giving a great overview of the field."

"I liked the progression from basic concepts to design flows and future trends."

"Provides a comprehensive look at reconfigurable computing and FPGAs from different angles."

"The syllabus hits all the necessary background knowledge points mentioned."

Concepts made accessible with simple language.

"The explanations were very clear and the use of analogies made complex ideas much easier to grasp."

"I really appreciated how the instructor broke down difficult topics using simple examples."

"Even without a strong technical background, I was able to follow along thanks to the clear language."

"The way concepts are explained makes it very accessible to beginners."

Provides a strong base in FPGA concepts.

"This course provided me with a strong foundation in understanding how FPGAs work and why they are used."

"I feel much more confident about the basic concepts after completing this, it laid a solid groundwork."

"Good introductory material to get a grasp of FPGA fundamentals and reconfigurable computing principles."

"It's a great starting point if you have zero prior knowledge of FPGA technology."

Access to required readings can be an issue.

"Accessing the required IEEE Xplore readings was difficult without a university subscription."

"The reliance on paid articles for supplementary material is a significant drawback."

"It's frustrating not being able to read the recommended papers because they are paywalled."

"Wish there were alternative, freely accessible readings provided instead."

Emphasis on concepts over hands-on practice.

"The course is very theoretical; it provides good background but lacks practical, hands-on examples."

"Don't expect to learn how to program an FPGA here, it's more about the 'what' and 'why', not the 'how'."

"Could use more examples of actual implementation or using specific tools."

"It sets the stage well, but you will definitely need other resources for practical skills."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in FPGA computing systems: Background knowledge and introductory materials with these activities:

Review Fundamentals of FPGA

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Refreshing your knowledge of the fundamentals of FPGAs will help you better understand the more advanced concepts covered in this course.

Browse courses on Digital Logic

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Review the basics of digital logic gates and circuits.
Review the architecture of an FPGA.
Review the different types of FPGA programming languages.

Brush up on Math Fundamentals

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This course assumes some basic familiarity with mathematical concepts such as sets, functions, and logical reasoning. Reviewing these fundamentals before the course starts will help you succeed.

Browse courses on Discrete Mathematics

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Review set theory concepts (e.g., unions, intersections, complements)
Practice solving combinatorial problems (e.g., counting permutations and combinations)
Sharpen your logical reasoning skills (e.g., using truth tables and Venn diagrams)

Follow Online Tutorials on FPGA Design

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There are many helpful online tutorials available that can teach you more about FPGA design.

Browse courses on FPGA Design

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Find a reputable online tutorial on FPGA design.
Follow the tutorial step-by-step.
Complete the exercises and projects that are included in the tutorial.

Two other activities

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Design and Implement a Simple FPGA Circuit

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Completing this activity will reinforce the concepts you learn in the course about designing and implementing FPGA circuits.

Browse courses on FPGA Design

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Design a simple FPGA circuit using a hardware description language (HDL).
Implement your design on an FPGA board.
Test your circuit to verify its functionality.

Write a Blog Post About an FPGA Project

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Writing a blog post about an FPGA project will help you to solidify your understanding of the concepts involved and to share your knowledge with others.

Browse courses on Technical Writing

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Choose an FPGA project that you have completed.
Write a blog post that describes the project, the challenges you faced, and the results you achieved.
Publish your blog post online.

Career center

Learners who complete FPGA computing systems: Background knowledge and introductory materials will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

FPGA Engineer

An FPGA Engineer designs and develops FPGA-based systems, including hardware and software components. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies and their applications, covering topics such as FPGA architecture, programming, and design flows. By understanding the concepts and techniques taught in this course, you'll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed as an FPGA Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for FPGA Engineer

Hardware Design Engineer

A Hardware Design Engineer designs and develops hardware systems, including electronic circuits and devices. This course offers a comprehensive overview of FPGA technologies, providing a strong foundation for understanding the principles of hardware design. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities as a Hardware Design Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Design Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer

An Embedded Systems Engineer designs and develops embedded systems, integrating hardware and software components. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, which are commonly used in embedded systems for their reconfigurability and performance advantages. By gaining a thorough understanding of FPGAs, you'll enhance your abilities to design and develop embedded systems effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer

Computer Architect

A Computer Architect designs and develops computer systems, including hardware and software architectures. This course offers a comprehensive overview of FPGA technologies, providing a solid foundation for understanding the principles of computer architecture. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities as a Computer Architect.

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Systems Engineer

A Systems Engineer designs and develops complex systems, integrating various components and technologies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of FPGA technologies, offering a solid foundation for understanding the principles of systems engineering. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to design and develop complex systems effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Research Scientist

A Research Scientist conducts research and development in various scientific and engineering fields. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to conduct research and development in areas related to FPGA technologies.

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Software Engineer

A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to design and develop software systems that leverage FPGA technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Electrical Engineer

An Electrical Engineer designs and develops electrical systems and components. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to design and develop electrical systems that leverage FPGA technologies.

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Computer Science Professor

A Computer Science Professor teaches and conducts research in computer science and related fields. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to teach and conduct research in areas related to FPGA technologies.

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Hardware Architect

A Hardware Architect designs and develops hardware architectures for various systems and devices. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to design and develop hardware architectures that leverage FPGA technologies.

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Embedded Software Engineer

An Embedded Software Engineer designs and develops software for embedded systems. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to design and develop embedded software that leverages FPGA technologies.

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Product Manager

A Product Manager manages the development and marketing of products. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to manage the development and marketing of products that leverage FPGA technologies.

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Technical Writer

A Technical Writer creates and maintains technical documentation, such as user manuals and white papers. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to create and maintain technical documentation related to FPGA technologies.

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Sales Engineer

A Sales Engineer provides technical support to customers and helps them select and implement products and services. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to provide technical support and help customers select and implement FPGA-based products and services.

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FPGA Developer

An FPGA Developer designs and develops FPGA-based systems, including hardware and software components. This course provides a solid foundation in FPGA technologies, offering a comprehensive overview of their principles and applications. By completing this course, you'll gain valuable knowledge and skills that will enhance your abilities to design and develop FPGA-based systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for FPGA Developer