Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Basics of VHDL

This module introduces the basics of the VHDL language for logic design. It describes the use of VHDL as a design entry method for logic design in FPGAs and ASICs. To provide context, it shows where VHDL is used in the FPGA design flow. Then a simple example, a 4-bit comparator, is used as a first phrase in the language. VHDL rules and syntax are explained, along with statements, identifiers and keywords. Finally, use of simulation as a means of testing VHDL circuit designs is demonstrated using ModelSim, a simulator software tool. Programming assignments are used to develop skills and reinforce the concepts presented.

VHDL Logic Design Techniques

In this module use of the VHDL language to perform logic design is explored further. Many examples of combinatorial and synchronous logic circuits are presented and explained, including flip-flops, counters, registers, memories, tri-state buffers and finite state machines. Methods of hierarchical design and modular design techniques are explained and demonstrated. How to create test benches is described as a means for design verification. Students are giving ample opportunity to practice and refined their design technique using the programming assignments.

Basics of Verilog

This module introduces the basics of the Verilog language for logic design. It describes the use of Verilog as a design entry method for logic design in FPGAs and ASICs, including the history of Verilog's development. Then a simple example, a 4-bit comparator, is used as a first phrase in the language. Verilog rules and syntax are explained, along with statements, operators and keywords. Finally, use of simulation as a means of testing Verilog circuit designs is demonstrated using ModelSim, a simulator tool. Programming assignments are used to develop skills and reinforce the concepts presented.

Verilog and System Verilog Design Techniques

In this module use of the Verilog language to perform logic design is explored further. Many examples of combinatorial and synchronous logic circuits are presented and explained, including flip-flops, counters, registers, memories, tri-state buffers and finite state machines. Methods of hierarchical design and modular design techniques are explained and demonstrated. How to create test benches is described as a means for design verification. Students are giving ample opportunity to practice and refined their design technique by writing code as required by the programming assignments.

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This course can also be taken for academic credits towards a Master's degree

Introduces the basics of VHDL and Verilog languages for logic design, which are the most widespread design methods for FPGA Design

Uses natural learning processes to make learning the languages easy by presenting simple first examples, then language rules and syntax, followed by more complex examples, and then finally use of test bench simulations to verify correctness of the designs

Lecture presentations are reinforced by many programming example problems so that skill in the languages is obtained

Students will have fundamental proficiency in both languages, and more importantly enough knowledge to continue learning and gaining expertise in Verilog and VHDL on their own

Covers the basics of VHDL, VHDL Logic Design Techniques, the basics of Verilog, and Verilog and System Verilog Design Techniques

Reviews summary

Fpga hdl essentials: verilog and vhdl

Students say this course is largely positive with top-notch instructors. It offers hands-on learning of Verilog and VHDL, featuring engaging assignments and challenging exams. The content is well-structured, and materials are comprehensive. However, some find difficult exams, so ensure you have a solid understanding of digital electronics.

Upon completion, you'll receive a certificate of completion from Coursera.

"Certificate of completion"

"Coursera"

This course introduces hardware description languages, with 240 hours of video, 50 pages of reading, and 11 programming assignments.

"About 240 hours of video content"

"50 pages of reading material"

"11 programming assignments"

This course provides practical learning experiences through programming assignments and simulations using ModelSim software.

"Practical learning experiences"

"Programming assignments"

"Simulations"

"ModelSim software"

The course content covers the fundamentals of hardware design using Verilog and VHDL, including digital systems design.

"Fundamentals of hardware design"

"Verilog and VHDL"

"Digital systems design"

Students praise the challenging assignments that provide ample opportunities to practice Verilog and VHDL.

"Challenging assignments"

"Opportunities to practice Verilog and VHDL"

The course features expert instructors from the University of Colorado Boulder.

"Experts from University of Colorado Boulder"

A basic understanding of digital electronics and some background in coding is recommended before taking this course.

"Basic understanding of digital electronics"

"Background in coding"

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 Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design with these activities:

Review basic combinational logic circuits

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Brush up on fundamental logic circuit concepts to prepare for VHDL and Verilog.

Browse courses on Logic Design

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Review truth tables, Boolean algebra, and logic gates.
Build simple combinational circuits using breadboards or simulation tools.
Analyze and troubleshoot logic circuit designs.
Optional: Design and simulate a small combinational logic circuit.

Review VHDL Basics

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Brushing up on the basics of VHDL will make it easier to follow along with the course content and pick up new concepts.

Browse courses on VHDL

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Go over the VHDL syntax and rules.
Review examples of simple VHDL circuits.

Review digital logic design textbook

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Reinforce your understanding of digital logic concepts by reviewing a textbook.

View Digital Design, Global Edition on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the textbook.
Read through the chapters relevant to VHDL and Verilog.
Solve practice problems and exercises provided in the textbook.

Ten other activities

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Verilog Tutorials

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Following Verilog tutorials will complement the course material and provide you with additional insights and examples.

Browse courses on Verilog

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Find Verilog tutorials online or in books.
Follow the tutorials and complete the practice exercises.

Follow online tutorials on HDL

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Supplement your understanding of HDL by following interactive tutorials.

Browse courses on VHDL

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Search for online tutorials on VHDL or Verilog.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
Complete the exercises and projects provided in the tutorials.

Participate in online discussion forums

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Engage with peers to discuss concepts, ask questions, and share knowledge.

Browse courses on VHDL

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Join online discussion forums related to HDL.
Read and participate in discussions on various topics.
Ask questions, provide answers, and engage in constructive debates.

Practice HDL coding problems

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Practice writing HDL code to reinforce syntax and concepts.

Browse courses on VHDL

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Find online coding problems or exercises.
Attempt to solve the problems using VHDL or Verilog.
Check your solutions against provided answers or use a simulator to verify.

VHDL Coding Exercises

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Solving VHDL coding problems will help you apply the concepts you learn in the course and improve your proficiency in the language.

Browse courses on VHDL

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Find VHDL coding exercises online or in textbooks.
Solve the exercises and check your answers.

Verilog Discussion Group

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Engaging in discussions with peers will allow you to share knowledge, learn from others, and clarify your understanding of Verilog.

Browse courses on Verilog

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Join an online or in-person Verilog discussion group.
Participate in discussions and ask questions.

Design and simulate a simple HDL project

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Apply your HDL skills to a practical project, enhancing your understanding.

Browse courses on VHDL

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Identify a simple logic design project to implement.
Draw a schematic or write a behavioral description of the design in HDL.
Simulate the design using a simulation tool to verify its functionality.

Build a small FPGA project

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Gain practical experience by implementing your HDL design on an FPGA.

Browse courses on VHDL

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Purchase or acquire an FPGA development board.
Learn the basics of FPGA programming and toolchain.
Implement your HDL design on the FPGA board.
Test and debug your project.

FPGA Design Project

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Designing and simulating an FPGA circuit will put your knowledge of VHDL and Verilog into practice and provide you with hands-on experience.

Browse courses on FPGA Design

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Choose a simple FPGA design project.
Implement the design in VHDL or Verilog.
Simulate the design using ModelSim or another simulator.

Build a Verilog Portfolio

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Creating a portfolio of Verilog projects will showcase your skills and knowledge, making you more competitive in the job market.

Browse courses on Verilog

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Design and implement several Verilog projects of varying complexity.
Document your projects and include them in a portfolio.

Career center

Learners who complete Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

FPGA Design Engineer

An FPGA Design Engineer is responsible for specifying, designing, developing, testing, and validating hardware components using Xilinx and Altera FPGAs. This role requires an understanding of digital logic design, VHDL and Verilog, and FPGA architecture. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate logic circuits.

See salaries and explore the career path for FPGA Design Engineer

Digital Design Engineer

A Digital Design Engineer is responsible for the design and development of digital circuits for a variety of electronic devices. This role requires an understanding of digital logic design, programming languages, and hardware architecture. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate logic circuits.

See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Design Engineer

Hardware Engineer

A Hardware Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of electronic hardware components. This role requires an understanding of digital and analog circuits, programming languages, and hardware architecture. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate logic circuits.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer

ASIC Design Engineer

An ASIC Design Engineer is responsible for the design and development of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). This role requires an understanding of digital logic design, programming languages, and ASIC architecture. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate logic circuits.

See salaries and explore the career path for ASIC Design Engineer

Semiconductor Design Engineer

A Semiconductor Design Engineer is responsible for the design and development of semiconductor devices. This role requires an understanding of semiconductor physics, digital logic design, and semiconductor manufacturing. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate hardware components for semiconductors.

See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Design Engineer

System-on-Chip (SoC) Design Engineer

A System-on-Chip (SoC) Design Engineer is responsible for the design and development of complex integrated circuits that incorporate multiple cores and other components. This role requires an understanding of digital logic design, programming languages, and SoC architecture. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate logic circuits.

See salaries and explore the career path for System-on-Chip (SoC) Design Engineer

Computer Architect

A Computer Architect is responsible for the design and development of computer systems. This role requires an understanding of computer architecture, programming languages, and operating systems. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate hardware components for computer systems.

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VLSI Design Engineer

A VLSI Design Engineer is responsible for the design and development of very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSIs). This role requires an understanding of digital logic design, programming languages, and VLSI architecture. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate hardware components for VLSIs.

See salaries and explore the career path for VLSI Design Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer

An Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design and development of embedded systems. This role requires an understanding of digital logic design, programming languages, and embedded systems architecture. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can help build a foundation in these areas by teaching students how to use VHDL and Verilog to design and simulate hardware components for embedded systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer

Analog Design Engineer

An Analog Design Engineer is responsible for the design and development of analog circuits. This role requires an understanding of analog circuits, operational amplifiers, and signal processing. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can provide a foundation in digital design, which is relevant to the design of analog circuits.

See salaries and explore the career path for Analog Design Engineer

RF Engineer

An RF Engineer is responsible for the design and development of radio frequency (RF) systems. This role requires an understanding of RF circuits, antennas, and signal processing. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can provide a foundation in digital design, which is relevant to the design of RF systems.

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Test Engineer

A Test Engineer is responsible for the testing and evaluation of electronic devices and systems. This role requires an understanding of digital and analog circuits, programming languages, and test equipment. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can provide a foundation in digital design, which is relevant to the testing of electronic devices and systems.

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Systems Engineer

A Systems Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and integration of complex systems. This role requires an understanding of systems engineering principles, system architecture, and system integration. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can provide a foundation in digital design, which can be helpful for designing and developing complex systems.

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Technical Writer

A Technical Writer is responsible for the creation of technical documentation, such as user manuals, technical reports, and white papers. This role requires an understanding of technical concepts, writing skills, and document design. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can provide a foundation in digital design, which can be helpful for writing technical documentation for electronic devices and systems.

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Project Manager

A Project Manager is responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of projects. This role requires an understanding of project management principles, risk management, and stakeholder management. The Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design course offered by the University of Colorado Boulder can provide a foundation in digital design, which can be helpful for managing projects that involve the design and development of electronic devices and systems.

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