Choosing a Low-Risk FPGA/eFPGA Supplier

By Brian Faith, Quicklogic

December 6, 2024

When system design engineers evaluate the risks of choosing a particular supplier for FPGAs and eFPGAs, they often focus on traditional concerns such as supply chain issues, quality, and reliability. While these are certainly critical considerations, there are other, more subtle risks that are often overlooked but equally important. Let’s explore a few of these key risks:

Longevity of Supply

Close to 75% of the FPGA/eFPGA companies that have been founded over the past four decades have either been acquired or are no longer in business. First and foremost, the FPGA and/or eFPGA Company you commit your project’s success needs to have the track record and financial wherewithal to be there every step of the way – in some cases for decades into the future.

Vendor Tool “Lock-In”

Most FPGA suppliers offer proprietary toolsets that only support their own devices. This can seem fine—until you discover that your targeted device is more expensive than expected, doesn’t meet timing or power requirements, or lacks the right mix of features for your design.

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