FPGA

FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) is a semiconductor device that can be configured and reconfigured by a user after manufacturing to implement custom digital logic circuits. It consists of an array of programmable logic blocks and interconnects that can be wired together to perform complex functions, offering hardware-level performance with software-like flexibility. FPGAs are widely used in applications requiring high-speed parallel processing, real-time signal processing, and rapid prototyping of digital systems.

Also known as: Field-Programmable Gate Array, FPGAs, Field Programmable Gate Arrays, Programmable Logic Device, PLD

Why learn FPGA?

Developers should learn and use FPGAs when working on projects that demand low-latency, high-throughput processing, such as in telecommunications, aerospace, automotive (e.g., ADAS), and financial trading systems, where traditional CPUs or GPUs may be insufficient. They are also valuable for prototyping ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits), implementing custom accelerators for machine learning or cryptography, and in embedded systems where power efficiency and real-time performance are critical.

Learning Resources

• docs: FPGA Fundamentals
• course: FPGA Programming with Verilog
• video: Introduction to FPGAs on YouTube
• book: FPGA Prototyping by Verilog Examples