What are FPGAs?
FPGA stands for Field Programmable Gate Array. This is a combination of circuits made up of configurable logic digital cells. Every cell has combinational logic and state-dependent logic. You can configure and combine this circuitry, which is made up of different cells. FPGA can help you create any digital circuit. You can create digital circuits from an ordinary logical AND up to sophisticated processor. You can do all of these circuits by simply reconfiguring the device. FPGA is very useful for prototyping and applications that needs constant changing. Your designs will depend on the type of FPGA. The types of FPGA contents depend on the number of logic and by the internal timing constraints. Altera FPGA is one of its best types. It has the Quartus II software, which will help you program FPGA boards or otherwise known as the field programmable gate arrays. The Quartus II software of the Altera FPGA allows you to make logical block diagrams and VHDL displays. These diagrams or codes can also be used to make projects like counters and other kinds of logical circuits.
Here are simple steps you can follow in using the Quartus II software of the Altera FPGA:
1. Click “file” and “New Project Wizard” to create a new project after opening the Quartus II. After that, click “next” and pick a directory where you want to create that project. Make a name for that project then click “finish”. By doing this, you have created a project.
2. Click the assignment icon and select the device icon. Pick the “family” for the FPGA device and select the name for the drop-down box. Click the OK icon to assign the certain device you selected.
3. Click the file icon to create a block diagram file. After that, click “new” and select “Block Diagram” or “Schematic File.” Make a name for that file then save your file by clicking “ok.” To create a VHDL file, click “File” and “New”. Then select the “Verilog HDL File.” Make a file name for it and save it by clicking “OK.” You can add the VHDL code for your design.
4. To create your schematic diagram, add logical symbols on your block diagram file. After that, click “edit” and the “insert symbol” so that you can add different kinds of symbols.
5. In order for you to match the hardware for the FPGA, rename the pin assignments in he symbols. After that, pull the project together with the design by clicking “Processing,” selecting “Start” and click “Start Analysis & Elaboration.” After doing these things, assign the pins. To assign these pins on the design to the values on the board, click “assignments” and “pins.”
6. If you want to save the changes of your design, click “Start Compilation.” Click “tools” on the top menu bar, and then click “Programmer” for you to send the design to your FPGA device. Use a USB cable to connect the device to your computer. Turn on the FPGA and start using the Quartus II software so that you can download the program form the USB.