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Timothy Scherr
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.
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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.
Read more
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.
This course consists of 4 modules, approximately 1 per week for 4 weeks. Each module will include an hour or two of video lectures, reading assignments, discussion prompts, and an end of module assessment.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/f3xux5/fpga
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What's inside
Syllabus
Softcore Processor Development Flow
This module introduces the concept of a soft processor in general, and of hardware design for the soft processor in particular. It presents an overview of soft processors, describing all the different kinds that are available from Xilinx, Altera, Microsemi, and Lattice and then goes into depth about the Nios II soft processor from Altera. The benefits of using soft processors to prevent obsolescence and provide flexibility are explained. The content guides you through a hardware design of the Nios II processor using Qsys, the Altera system design tool. Lastly, design of a custom instruction in the Nios II is presented, showing the versatility of the soft processor in an FPGA.
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Syllabus
Softcore Processor Development Flow
This module introduces the concept of a soft processor in general, and of hardware design for the soft processor in particular. It presents an overview of soft processors, describing all the different kinds that are available from Xilinx, Altera, Microsemi, and Lattice and then goes into depth about the Nios II soft processor from Altera. The benefits of using soft processors to prevent obsolescence and provide flexibility are explained. The content guides you through a hardware design of the Nios II processor using Qsys, the Altera system design tool. Lastly, design of a custom instruction in the Nios II is presented, showing the versatility of the soft processor in an FPGA.
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Develops skills in computer engineering and design, which are in high demand in industry
Taught by Timothy Scherr, an Altera distinguished engineer with over 30 years of training experience
Suitable for students with some background knowledge in FPGA design
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Reviews summary
Fpga softcore processors: practical ip integration
According to learners, this course provides a largely positive and comprehensive dive into FPGA softcore processors and IP acquisition. Students particularly appreciate the hands-on labs using industry-standard tools like Nios II, Qsys, ModelSim, and SignalTap II, which are crucial for practical application. The clear explanations of custom instructions and IP integration are frequently highlighted. However, some students note that software setup can be challenging due to potentially outdated tool versions, and a strong background in digital logic is recommended for optimal learning.
The course provides a solid introduction, but some experienced learners desire more advanced topics.
"The theoretical concepts are well-explained, but the practical exercises felt a bit rushed at times."
"Good overview, but for experienced designers, it might feel a bit basic. The depth is adequate for an introduction, but I was hoping for more advanced optimization techniques."
"The lectures are dense but comprehensive, though some parts felt a little dated."
Reviewers note the extensive and insightful coverage of key FPGA concepts.
"This course is a phenomenal deep dive into FPGA softcore processors. The instructor's explanations of custom instructions and IP acquisition were clear and practical."
"Excellent content coverage, especially on ModelSim and SignalTap II for verification. I found the lectures insightful."
"A fantastic introduction to a complex topic. The structured approach to building a soft processor from scratch was eye-opening."
The course strongly emphasizes practical, real-world application with industry tools.
"The hands-on labs using Nios II and Qsys were incredibly valuable and solidified my understanding."
"The detailed walkthroughs of ModelSim simulation and using SignalTap II for debugging were exactly what I needed for my professional projects."
"I found the practical application with specific vendor tools a huge plus for my understanding."
The course expects a foundational understanding of digital logic and HDL.
"The course assumes some prior FPGA knowledge, which is fair, but beginners might struggle."
"I struggled with this course. While the content is relevant, I felt that the prerequisites were not clearly stated. As a beginner, I was quickly lost."
"It's definitely for someone with a background in digital logic and basic HDL."
Challenges with outdated tool versions and software setup are frequently reported.
"My only minor gripe is that some of the software setup instructions were a bit challenging on newer OS versions, requiring some troubleshooting."
"Completely outdated tools. Trying to follow the Nios II setup instructions on current Windows versions was a nightmare."
"The labs often required specific hardware or software versions that were hard to acquire/set up, making the hands-on experience frustrating."
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 Softcore Processors and IP Acquisition with these
activities:
Review Verilog Basics
Show steps
Reviewing basic Verilog concepts will help you understand the hardware design for the soft processor in module 1.
Browse courses on
Verilog
Show steps
-
Review Verilog syntax and semantics
-
Practice writing simple Verilog modules
Review Zynq Architecture and Embedded Design Concepts
Show steps
Review the key concepts to build your foundation for this course
Show steps
-
Follow the Xilinx Zynq-7000 All Programmable SoC Overview self-paced course
-
Review the Embedded Design Concepts in Xilinx Zynq-7000 SoCs
Brush Up on C Programming
Show steps
Refresh your prior programming experience to make the most of this course
Browse courses on
C Programming
Show steps
-
Review basic C syntax and data structures
-
Practice writing simple C programs
Eight other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 11 activities
Solve C Programming Problems on LeetCode
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of C programming by solving challenging problems
Browse courses on
C Programming
Show steps
-
Choose problems tagged with 'C'
-
Attempt to solve the problems without looking at the solution
-
Review solutions when needed
Build Your FPGA Design Toolkit
Show steps
Gather essential tools and resources to enhance your learning journey
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
-
Identify and collect recommended tools such as simulation software and design libraries
-
Organize your tools and resources for easy access and use
-
Share your toolkit with other FPGA enthusiasts
Connect with Experienced FPGA Professionals
Show steps
Seek guidance and insights from experienced professionals in the field
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
-
Attend industry events and meetups to network with professionals
-
Join online communities and engage in discussions to connect with experts
-
Reach out to potential mentors directly for guidance and advice
FPGA Design Exercises
Show steps
Completing FPGA design exercises will help you understand the hardware design process for soft processors.
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
-
Design a simple FPGA circuit using a hardware description language
-
Simulate and test the circuit using a design tool
Attend a Workshop on FPGA Design
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience and learn from experts in FPGA design
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
-
Find a relevant workshop offered by Altera, Xilinx, or other providers
-
Register and attend the workshop
-
Participate actively in the hands-on exercises
-
Network with other participants and industry professionals
Nios II Processor Design Tutorial
Show steps
Creating a tutorial on Nios II processor design will help you solidify your understanding of the processor hardware and software development flow.
Browse courses on
Nios II
Show steps
-
Write a step-by-step guide on how to design a Nios II processor using Qsys
-
Include examples and diagrams to illustrate the process
Design and Implement a Simple Soft Processor in VHDL
Show steps
Put your learning into practice by creating a custom soft processor from scratch
Browse courses on
VHDL
Show steps
-
Design the architecture of your soft processor
-
Write VHDL code to implement the processor
-
Simulate your processor to verify its functionality
-
Synthesize and implement your processor on an FPGA
Volunteer as a Mentor for New FPGA Designers
Show steps
Deepen your understanding by mentoring others and sharing your knowledge
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
-
Find opportunities to mentor through online forums or local organizations
-
Provide guidance and support to aspiring FPGA designers
-
Reflect on your own learning and reinforce your understanding
Review Verilog Basics
Show steps
Reviewing basic Verilog concepts will help you understand the hardware design for the soft processor in module 1.
Browse courses on
Verilog
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review Verilog syntax and semantics
- Practice writing simple Verilog modules
Review Zynq Architecture and Embedded Design Concepts
Show steps
Review the key concepts to build your foundation for this course
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Follow the Xilinx Zynq-7000 All Programmable SoC Overview self-paced course
- Review the Embedded Design Concepts in Xilinx Zynq-7000 SoCs
Brush Up on C Programming
Show steps
Refresh your prior programming experience to make the most of this course
Browse courses on
C Programming
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic C syntax and data structures
- Practice writing simple C programs
Eight other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 11 activities
Solve C Programming Problems on LeetCode
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of C programming by solving challenging problems
Browse courses on
C Programming
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose problems tagged with 'C'
- Attempt to solve the problems without looking at the solution
- Review solutions when needed
Build Your FPGA Design Toolkit
Show steps
Gather essential tools and resources to enhance your learning journey
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and collect recommended tools such as simulation software and design libraries
- Organize your tools and resources for easy access and use
- Share your toolkit with other FPGA enthusiasts
Connect with Experienced FPGA Professionals
Show steps
Seek guidance and insights from experienced professionals in the field
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend industry events and meetups to network with professionals
- Join online communities and engage in discussions to connect with experts
- Reach out to potential mentors directly for guidance and advice
FPGA Design Exercises
Show steps
Completing FPGA design exercises will help you understand the hardware design process for soft processors.
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Design a simple FPGA circuit using a hardware description language
- Simulate and test the circuit using a design tool
Attend a Workshop on FPGA Design
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience and learn from experts in FPGA design
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a relevant workshop offered by Altera, Xilinx, or other providers
- Register and attend the workshop
- Participate actively in the hands-on exercises
- Network with other participants and industry professionals
Nios II Processor Design Tutorial
Show steps
Creating a tutorial on Nios II processor design will help you solidify your understanding of the processor hardware and software development flow.
Browse courses on
Nios II
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Write a step-by-step guide on how to design a Nios II processor using Qsys
- Include examples and diagrams to illustrate the process
Design and Implement a Simple Soft Processor in VHDL
Show steps
Put your learning into practice by creating a custom soft processor from scratch
Browse courses on
VHDL
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Design the architecture of your soft processor
- Write VHDL code to implement the processor
- Simulate your processor to verify its functionality
- Synthesize and implement your processor on an FPGA
Volunteer as a Mentor for New FPGA Designers
Show steps
Deepen your understanding by mentoring others and sharing your knowledge
Browse courses on
FPGA Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find opportunities to mentor through online forums or local organizations
- Provide guidance and support to aspiring FPGA designers
- Reflect on your own learning and reinforce your understanding
Career center
Learners who complete FPGA Softcore Processors and IP Acquisition will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
FPGA Engineer
FPGA Engineer
An FPGA Engineer designs and develops field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and related systems. FPGAs are chips that can be programmed to perform specific tasks. This course can help you become an FPGA Engineer by teaching you the basics of FPGA design. You will learn about the different types of FPGAs, how to program them, and how to use them to build complex systems. With this knowledge, you could be responsible for the complete FPGA development flow and contribute to the design of embedded systems.
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineer
An Embedded Systems Engineer designs and develops embedded systems. Embedded systems are electronic systems that are designed to perform specific tasks within a larger system. This course can help you become an Embedded Systems Engineer by teaching you the basics of embedded system design. You will learn about the different types of embedded systems, how to program them, and how to use them to build complex systems.
Hardware Engineer
Hardware Engineer
A Hardware Engineer designs and develops hardware systems. Hardware systems are physical systems that perform specific tasks. This course can help you become a Hardware Engineer by teaching you the basics of hardware design. You will learn about the different types of hardware, how to design them, and how to use them to build complex systems.
Algorithm Engineer
Algorithm Engineer
An Algorithm Engineer designs and develops algorithms. Algorithms are sets of instructions that tell computers how to perform specific tasks. This course can help you become an Algorithm Engineer by teaching you the basics of algorithm design. You will learn about the different types of algorithms, how to design them, and how to use them to solve complex problems.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineer
A Systems Engineer designs and develops systems. Systems are collections of components that work together to perform specific tasks. This course can help you become a Systems Engineer by teaching you the basics of systems engineering. You will learn about the different types of systems, how to design them, and how to use them to build complex systems.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer designs and develops software. Software is a set of instructions that tell computers how to perform specific tasks. This course can help you become a Software Engineer by teaching you the basics of software design. You will learn about the different types of software, how to design it, and how to use it to build complex systems.
Computer Architect
Computer Architect
A Computer Architect designs and develops computer architectures. Computer architectures are the blueprints for computers. This course can help you become a Computer Architect by teaching you the basics of computer architecture. You will learn about the different types of computer architectures, how to design them, and how to use them to build complex computer systems.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
A Computer Scientist researches and develops new computer technologies. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Computer Scientist. It can help you build a foundation in computer science, which is the study of computers and computation. With this knowledge, you could study different technology domains and find what interests you most.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
An Electrical Engineer designs and develops electrical systems. Electrical systems are systems that use electricity to perform specific tasks. This course can help you become an Electrical Engineer by teaching you the basics of electrical engineering. You will learn about the different types of electrical systems, how to design them, and how to use them to build complex systems.
Mathematician
Mathematician
A Mathematician researches and develops new mathematical theories and methods. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Mathematician. It can help you build a foundation in mathematics, which is the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns. With this knowledge, you could research any of the many branches of mathematics like statistics, probability, or algebra.
Physicist
Physicist
A Physicist researches and develops new physical theories and methods. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Physicist. It can help you build a foundation in physics, which is the study of matter and energy. With this knowledge, you could research any of the many branches of physics like astrophysics, nuclear physics, or particle physics.
Statistician
Statistician
A Statistician researches and develops new statistical theories and methods. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Statistician. It can help you build a foundation in statistics, which is the study of data. With this knowledge, you could research any of the many branches of statistics like biostatistics, econometrics, or data science.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist researches and develops new ways to collect, analyze, and interpret data. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Data Scientist. It can help you build a foundation in data science, which is the study of data. With this knowledge, you could research any of the many branches of data science like machine learning, artificial intelligence, or big data.
Project Manager
Project Manager
A Project Manager plans and executes projects. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Project Manager. It can help you build a foundation in project management, which is the study of planning and executing projects. With this knowledge, you could manage projects in any industry.
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analyst
A Quality Assurance Analyst tests and evaluates software and hardware products. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Quality Assurance Analyst. It can help you build a foundation in quality assurance, which is the study of testing and evaluating products. With this knowledge, you could work with many types of products, from software to hardware.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/f3xux5/fpga
Reading list
We've selected 14 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
FPGA Softcore Processors and IP Acquisition.
Takes a top-down approach that starts from system partitions to synthesis and explicitly addresses the problems and their solutions, such as synchronization, interfaces, and reliable communications.
Provides a comprehensive design flow from hardware design to software deployment and provides examples in Verilog language and assembler. It includes coverage of the implementation of a simple processor using Verilog.
As a reference that looks at the theory and practice of FPGA prototyping, this book uses Verilog examples to demonstrate how to design and build FPGA-based systems using MicroBlaze soft processor and Spartan 3 FPGA. discusses real-world design issues, including system bottlenecks, and offers solutions.
Focuses on embedded system design using platform FPGAs, covering topics such as embedded system architecture, FPGA-based system design, and hardware/software co-design, making it suitable for those interested in designing embedded systems using FPGAs.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of digital systems design using VHDL, covering topics such as VHDL syntax, design methodologies, and simulation techniques, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced designers who want to learn more about VHDL.
Provides a comprehensive overview of FPGA-based system design, covering topics such as FPGA architectures, design methodologies, and system-level optimization, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced FPGA designers.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of digital logic design principles and practices, covering topics such as Boolean algebra, combinational and sequential logic, and digital systems design, making it a valuable reference for both beginners and experienced designers.
Gives a good overview of FPGA embedded systems design, from hardware and software considerations to debugging and testing. It provides a practical approach with real-world examples.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of digital design principles and practices, covering topics such as Boolean algebra, combinational and sequential logic, and digital systems design, making it a valuable reference for both beginners and experienced designers.
Save
A best seller, this book provides the latest information about Verilog HDL and how to use it for digital systems design and synthesis. Its focus is on practical applications with examples and is considered a worthwhile reference for practicing engineers.
Provides a thorough foundation in digital logic design principles, covering topics such as Boolean algebra, combinational and sequential circuits, and digital system design, making it suitable as a prerequisite for more advanced FPGA design courses.
Uses VHDL examples to demonstrate the process of prototyping FPGAs; it covers FPGA basics, VHDL syntax, and design examples, making it useful for beginners in the field of FPGA prototyping.
Save
Provides an in-depth look at advanced FPGA design techniques, covering topics such as FPGA architectures, high-level synthesis, and optimization techniques, making it suitable for experienced FPGA designers who want to enhance their skills.
Although this book focuses on SystemVerilog for verification, it provides a solid understanding of the SystemVerilog language, which is useful for FPGA design as well, making it a valuable reference for those who want to learn more about SystemVerilog.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/f3xux5/fpga
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 3-5 hours/week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Timothy Scherr
Language
English
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
FPGA Design for Embedded Systems. It's comprised of four courses:
- FPGA Softcore Processors and IP Acquisition (viewing)
- FPGA Capstone: Building FPGA Projects
- Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design
- Introduction to FPGA Design for Embedded Systems
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