OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
Coursera logo

FPGA computing systems

A Bird’s Eye View

4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 36 ratings
see reviews
Marco Domenico Santambrogio

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.

Read more

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 course 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.

Enroll now

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until March 12, 2027
Save 40% Off 3 Months
Access thousands of top-rated learning programs with a Coursera Plus monthly subscription and take 40% off 3 months for a limited time.
Take
40%
off
Get offer

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.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills and knowledge that are core to hardware and software optimization
Explores the burgeoning field of adaptive computing systems
Offers a comprehensive study of FPGAs, which are increasingly used for a wide range of applications
Taught by Marco Domenico Santambrogio, a recognized expert in the field with extensive experience in the development and implementation of FPGA-based systems
Provides in-depth examples and hands-on labs to reinforce the concepts
Covers foundational concepts making it accessible to students with varying backgrounds

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Fpga systems: a conceptual overview

According to students, this course offers a solid theoretical foundation and a clear conceptual understanding of FPGA computing systems and reconfigurable computing. It's consistently praised for providing a valuable "bird's eye view" into the "what" and "why" of FPGAs, including historical context and architectural principles. While learners find the instructor's knowledge evident and the modules well-structured, a common point of feedback highlights that the course is primarily theoretical. Those seeking hands-on design experience or practical tool usage may find it lacks applied content, and some felt the "examples" module was conceptual rather than practical. It serves as an excellent conceptual primer.
Instructor demonstrates deep expertise in the course material.
"The lecturer was knowledgeable, but the pace felt a bit slow at times for the content covered."
"The instructor explains complex ideas well, making it accessible even for those with limited prior FPGA exposure."
"The instructor's depth of knowledge is evident."
"The quality of lectures is high, and the material is well-researched."
Accurately provides a high-level "bird's eye view" of the subject.
"It truly is a 'bird's eye view,' which might be too general for someone with a basic hardware background looking to get started."
"This course... does exactly what it says: gives a bird's eye view."
"It is indeed a 'bird's eye view,' so manage your expectations regarding practical application."
"It clearly states it's an overview, and it delivers on that."
Provides a clear, conceptual understanding of FPGA principles.
"As someone new to FPGAs... this course was exactly what I needed. It clarified many misconceptions and provided a solid conceptual framework."
"It perfectly explains 'what' FPGAs are and 'why' they are important for adaptive computing. It sets a good theoretical basis."
"Excellent theoretical foundation! This course filled in many gaps in my understanding of FPGA's place in modern adaptive systems."
"I found this course quite informative for getting a high-level understanding of reconfigurable computing and FPGAs."
Best for those with some prior technical background.
"It truly is a 'bird's eye view,' which might be too general for someone with a basic hardware background looking to get started."
"I think it needs to clearly articulate its target audience better... I found it quite challenging without a strong background."
"It's definitely not for beginners who need guided practical steps."
"Requires significant prior knowledge to appreciate the nuances."
Focuses on theory with minimal practical or design application.
"If you are looking for 'how-to' design or implement, this isn't it. It's a stepping stone, not a practical guide."
"Disappointed. The course is too abstract and theoretical. I came here hoping for some practical insights into designing with FPGAs."
"The 'examples on how to configure an FPGA' module was misleading; it's a conceptual example, not a hands-on lab."
"Don't expect to be able to design anything afterwards, but you'll have a much better understanding of the underlying principles."

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: A Bird’s Eye View with these activities:
Review Prerequisites: Digital Logic Design and Computer Architecture
Refreshing your knowledge of these prerequisites will enhance your understanding of FPGA concepts.
Browse courses on Digital Logic Design
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes, textbooks, or online resources on digital logic design
  • Go through examples and practice problems to strengthen your understanding
  • Similarly, review computer architecture concepts, focusing on topics like processor design and memory organization
Review Embedded Systems: World Class Designs by Ed Frank
This book provides in-depth insights into embedded systems design principles and best practices.
View Books In Print 2004-2005 on Amazon
Show steps
  • Familiarize yourself with the book's structure and organization
  • Read through the chapters sequentially, taking notes on key concepts
  • Solve the exercises and answer the review questions at the end of each chapter
Organize and Review Course Materials
Organizing and reviewing course materials strengthens your grasp of the foundational concepts.
Show steps
  • Gather all course materials, including notes, slides, assignments, and quizzes
  • Organize the materials logically, categorizing them by topic or module
  • Review the materials regularly, focusing on key concepts and their interconnections
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore Tutorials on FPGA Programming and Design
These tutorials provide step-by-step guidance on FPGA programming and design concepts.
Show steps
  • Identify online tutorials or courses that align with your learning goals
  • Follow the tutorials diligently, taking notes and practicing the concepts
  • Complete the exercises and projects included in the tutorials
Join Study Groups or Online Forums for FPGA Discussions
Engaging in peer discussions fosters knowledge sharing and deepens your understanding of FPGA concepts.
Browse courses on FPGA Design
Show steps
  • Identify online forums or study groups dedicated to FPGA design
  • Participate actively in discussions, asking questions, sharing knowledge, and providing feedback
  • Collaborate with peers on projects or problem-solving activities
Solve FPGA Design Problems and Challenges
Solving problems and challenges strengthens your understanding of FPGA design concepts.
Browse courses on FPGA Design
Show steps
  • Find online resources or textbooks that provide FPGA design problems
  • Attempt to solve the problems on your own, referring to course materials or online resources for assistance
  • Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement
Design and Implement a Simple FPGA-Based Controller
This project offers hands-on experience in designing and implementing a basic FPGA-based controller.
Browse courses on FPGA Design
Show steps
  • Define the specifications and functional requirements of the controller
  • Design the FPGA logic using a hardware description language (e.g., VHDL or Verilog)
  • Simulate the design using an FPGA simulation tool
  • Implement the design on an actual FPGA board
  • Test and evaluate the performance of the controller
Develop a Presentation on a Specific FPGA Design Topic
Creating a presentation enhances your comprehension of a chosen FPGA design topic.
Browse courses on FPGA Design
Show steps
  • Select a specific FPGA design topic that you are interested in
  • Research the topic thoroughly, gathering information from reliable sources
  • Structure your presentation logically, including an introduction, main body, and conclusion
  • Use clear and concise language, supported by visuals and examples
  • Practice your presentation to ensure smooth delivery

Career center

Learners who complete FPGA computing systems: A Bird’s Eye View will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
FPGA Developer
FPGA Developers implement designs from conception through to implementation on Xilinx FPGAs. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, will be quite useful for building a foundation for work as an FPGA Developer, as this course covers the basics of FPGA technologies and how to implement designs using these.
See salaries and explore the career path for FPGA Developer
Hardware Engineer
Hardware Engineers are those who design, test, and build computer hardware components. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, will be quite useful in building a foundation for work as a Hardware Engineer as this field utilizes FPGA technologies. The course covers topics such as Reconfigurable Computing and FPGAs, Examples on how to configure an FPGA, and Reconfigurable Computing and FPGAs. Becoming familiar with these topics will build the skills and understanding needed for roles as a Hardware Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer
Digital Designer
Digital Designers design and develop digital circuits, which are used in a variety of electronic devices. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, will be quite useful for building a foundation for work as a Digital Designer as this field utilizes FPGA technologies. The course covers topics such as Reconfigurable Computing and FPGAs, Examples on how to configure an FPGA, and Reconfigurable Computing and FPGAs. Becoming familiar with these topics will build the skills and understanding needed for roles as a Digital Designer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Designer
Logic Designer
Logic Designers design and develop the logic circuits that are used in computers and other electronic devices. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, will be quite useful for building a foundation for roles as a Logic Designer as this field utilizes FPGA technologies. The course covers topics such as Reconfigurable Computing and FPGAs, Examples on how to configure an FPGA, and Reconfigurable Computing and FPGAs. Becoming familiar with these topics will build the skills and understanding needed for roles as a Logic Designer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Logic Designer
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineers design and develop embedded systems, which are computer systems designed to perform a specific function within a larger system. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful as it discusses topics such as A Bird's Eye View on Adaptive Computing Systems and An introduction to Reconfigurable Computing. However, most roles as an Embedded Systems Engineer would require some level of experience in embedded systems development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, organize, and manage projects. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful as it discusses high-level topics of computer science and engineering. However, most roles as an Embedded Systems Engineer would require experience in managing projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful as it covers high-level topics of computer science and engineering. However, most roles as a Software Engineer would require experience in developing software applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Computer Architect
Computer Architects design and develop the architecture of computers, including the hardware and software components. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful as it discusses topics such as A Bird's Eye View on Adaptive Computing Systems and An introduction to Reconfigurable Computing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Architect
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists conduct research in computer science and develop new technologies. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful as it covers high-level topics of computer science and engineering. However, most roles as a Computer Scientist would require a master's or phd.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems and components. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful in introducing some of the principles of electrical engineering as it relates to FPGAs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer
Test Engineer
Test Engineers design and develop tests for electronic devices and systems. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful in introducing some of the principles of testing electronic systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Test Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design and develop complex systems, which can include hardware, software, and other components. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful as it discusses high-level topics of computer science and engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer
VLSI Designer
VLSI Designers design and develop very-large-scale integrated circuits (VLSIs). The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful in introducing the basics of FPGA technologies, but most roles as a VLSI Designer would require a master's or phd.
See salaries and explore the career path for VLSI Designer
Semiconductor Engineer
Semiconductor Engineers design, develop, and test semiconductors, which are the basic building blocks of computers and other electronic devices. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful in introducing the basics of FPGA technologies, but most roles as a Semiconductor Engineer would require a master's or phd.
See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Engineer
ASIC Designer
ASIC Designers design and develop complex integrated circuits for use in a variety of electronic devices. The course, FPGA Computing Systems: A Bird's Eye View, may be helpful in introducing the basics of FPGA technologies, but most roles as an ASIC Designer would require a master's or phd.
See salaries and explore the career path for ASIC Designer

Reading list

We've selected ten 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 computing systems: A Bird’s Eye View.
Embedded System Design
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of embedded system design. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the fundamentals of embedded system design.
Embedded System Design: A Unified Hardware /...
Hardcover
$$$$
Embedded System Design : A Unified...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
FPGA Prototyping by VHDL Examples
Save
Provides a practical guide to FPGA prototyping using VHDL. It includes numerous examples and exercises that make it a valuable resource for students and practitioners.
FPGA Prototyping by VHDL Examples: Xilinx...
Hardcover
$$$
FPGA Prototyping Using VHDL Examples: 1st (First)...
Hardcover
$$$$
FPGA Prototyping by VHDL Examples: Xilinx Spartan-3...
Hardcover
$$$$
FPGA Prototyping by VHDL Examples: Xilinx...
Kindle Edition
$$$
FPGA Prototyping by VHDL Examples: Xilinx Spartan-3...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Advanced Digital Design with the Verilog HDL
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to advanced digital design using the Verilog HDL. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the fundamentals of advanced digital design.
Advanced Digital Design with the Verilog HDL
Paperback
Check
Advanced Digital Design with the Verilog HDL
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
FPGA Prototyping by SystemVerilog Examples
Save
Provides a practical guide to FPGA prototyping using Verilog. It covers the basics of Verilog, as well as the specific techniques used to design and implement FPGAs.
FPGA Prototyping by SystemVerilog Examples: Xilinx...
Hardcover
$$$$
FPGA Prototyping by SystemVerilog Examples: Xilinx...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer organization and design. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the hardware/software interface.
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Paperback
$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Paperback
$$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Digital Design
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to digital design. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the fundamentals of digital design.
Digital Design
Paperback
Check
Digital Design
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Digital Design, Global Edition
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to digital logic design using Verilog. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn about the fundamentals of digital logic design.
Digital Design, Global Edition
Paperback
Check
Digital Design, Global Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of digital design and computer architecture. It covers the basics of digital logic, as well as the more advanced topics of computer architecture.
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Paperback
$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Paperback
$$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Computer Organization and Design MIPS Edition: The...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Computer Organization and Design RISC-V Edition
Save
Provides a quantitative approach to computer architecture. It covers the performance, cost, and power consumption of different computer architectures.
Computer Organization and Design RISC-V Edition
Paperback
Check
Computer Organization and Design RISC-V Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Computers as Components
Save
Provides a practical guide to FPGA-based system design. It covers the different steps involved in designing an FPGA-based system, as well as the different tools and techniques used.
Computers as Components: Principles of Embedded...
Paperback
$$$

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to FPGA computing systems: A Bird’s Eye View.
FPGA Capstone: Building FPGA Projects
Most relevant
Computer Science: Algorithms, Theory, and Machines
Most relevant
FPGA computing systems: Background knowledge and...
Most relevant
FPGA Architecture Based System for Industrial Application
Most relevant
FPGA computing systems: Partial Dynamic Reconfiguration
Most relevant
FPGA Softcore Processors and IP Acquisition
Most relevant
Developing FPGA-accelerated cloud applications with...
Most relevant
AXI4 Implementations in FPGA Designs
Most relevant
High-Level Synthesis for FPGA, Part 1-Combinational...
Most relevant

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

Accredited University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions; free audit option available on most individual courses to explore video lectures and readings at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Refund Guarantee

14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus subscriptions and single-course purchases prior to certificate issuance. Monthly subscriptions do not offer refunds once billed.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

Accredited university and industry certifications (e.g. Stanford, Google, IBM, Yale), secure SSL payment processing, and verifiable digital certificate links.

Key Purchase Protections
14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus and single courses
7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions
Free course audit option for lectures and readings
Verified certificates from top universities & companies
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Rating
4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
18 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Politecnico di Milano
Instructor
Marco Domenico Santambrogio
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills and knowledge that are core to hardware and software optimization
Explores the burgeoning field of adaptive computing systems
Offers a comprehensive study of FPGAs, which are increasingly used for a wide range of applications
Taught by Marco Domenico Santambrogio, a recognized expert in the field with extensive experience in the development and implementation of FPGA-based systems
Provides in-depth examples and hands-on labs to reinforce the concepts
Covers foundational concepts making it accessible to students with varying backgrounds
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to FPGA computing systems.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser