Embedded Processors in FPGAs Amplify Verification Challenges

By _RocketBlog

August 16, 2010

Embedded processor cores for DSP, microcontroller and microprocessor functions are becoming increasingly common in FPGAs. Both Xilinx and Altera have long offered their own embedded soft IP cores, and a growing trend is to also support the integration of third-party hard IP cores, such as the PowerPC or ARM families. Gartner estimates that approximately 40% of all FPGA designs include embedded processors.  The combination of a flexible FPGA platform and a proven, high-performance core saves designers time and effort. And the FPGA suppliers are making it even more efficient through offerings such as Xilinx’ Extensible Processing Platform for the ARM Cortex-A9, which makes customizing the FPGA device for specific function or design requirements easier.

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