Rapid Prototyping of Digital Systems: SOPC Edition
Here is a laboratory workbook filled with interesting and challenging projects for digital logic design and embedded systems classes. The workbook introduces you to fully integrated modern CAD tools, logic simulation, logic synthesis using hardware description languages, design hierarchy, current generation field programmable gate array technology, and SoPC design. Projects cover such areas as serial communications, state machines with video output, video games and graphics, robotics, pipelined RISC processor cores, and designing computer systems using a commercial processor core.
Why Read This Book
You should read this if you want a project-driven, laboratory-style introduction to building complete FPGA-based systems using Altera's SOPC methodology — from HDL design through synthesis, soft-core integration, and board-level debugging. The book gives practical, end-to-end exercises (UARTs, VGA, robotics, pipelined RISC cores, a Nios-based computer) so you can apply tools and techniques on real FPGA hardware.
Who Will Benefit
Upper-level undergraduates, instructors, and engineers who need hands-on experience prototyping embedded systems on Altera (now Intel) FPGAs and want lab projects that combine HDL, synthesis, peripherals and a soft-core processor.
Level: Intermediate — Prerequisites: Introductory digital logic and finite state machines; basic HDL familiarity (Verilog or VHDL); basic C programming for embedded software is helpful for processor projects.
Key Takeaways
- Integrate soft-core processors (Nios) and peripherals into an SoPC design and boot simple embedded software.
- Use Altera Quartus II and SOPC Builder flows to synthesize, implement, and program FPGA designs.
- Develop and simulate combinational and sequential logic, including state machines and pipelined RISC cores in HDL.
- Implement I/O subsystems such as UART/serial, VGA/video output, and simple graphics and game logic on FPGA boards.
- Apply on-board debugging techniques (ModelSim simulation, SignalTap/logic analyzer, JTAG) to diagnose designs.
- Prototype mixed hardware/software systems and partition functionality between HDL and embedded code.
Topics Covered
- Introduction to Rapid Prototyping and FPGA Platforms
- Getting Started with Quartus II and SOPC Builder
- Digital Design Review: Combinational and Sequential Logic
- Finite State Machines and Design Hierarchy
- Logic Simulation and Verification (ModelSim)
- Synthesis, Timing Analysis and Implementation
- Peripherals and Serial Communications (UART, SPI)
- Video Output and VGA Graphics Projects
- Robotics and Sensor/Actuator Interfacing
- Pipelined RISC Processor Core Design
- SoPC Integration: Nios Soft Processor and System Design
- Embedded Software for Nios: Toolchain and Example Programs
- System Debugging, On-board Logic Analysis and Testing
- Capstone Projects and Design Examples
- Appendices: Tool Setup, Board Pinouts, Reference Materials
Languages, Platforms & Tools
How It Compares
More lab- and Altera/SOPC-specific than Chu's "FPGA Prototyping" series, which focuses deeply on HDL examples and modern device usage; complements (and is more tool-specific than) vendor documentation like the Nios II Software Developer/Hardware Reference Manuals.
