Embedded SoPC Design with Nios II Processor and Verilog Examples
Pong P. Chu
Wiley
<p>Explores the unique hardware programmability of FPGA-based embedded systems, using a learn-by-doing approach to introduce the concepts and techniques for embedded SoPC design with Verilog<p>An SoPC (system on a programmable chip) integrates a processor, memory modules, I/O peripherals, and custom hardware accelerators into a single FPGA (field-programmable gate array) device. In addition to the customized software, customized hardware can be developed and incorporated into the embedded system as well—allowing us to configure the soft-core processor, create tailored I/O interfaces, and develop specialized hardware accelerators for computation-intensive tasks.<p>Utilizing an Altera FPGA prototyping board and its Nios II soft-core processor, Embedded SoPC Design with Nios II Processor and Verilog Examples takes a ''learn by doing'' approach to illustrate the hardware and software design and development process by including realistic projects that can be implemented and tested on the board. <p>Emphasizing hardware design and integration throughout, the book is divided into four major parts:<ul><li><p>Part I covers HDL and synthesis of custom hardware</li><li><p>Part II  introduces the Nios II processor and provides an overview of embedded software development</li><li><p>Part III demonstrates the design and development of hardware and software of several complex I/O peripherals, including a PS2 keyboard and mouse, a graphic video controller, an audio codec, and an SD (secure digital) card</li><li><p>Part IV provides several case studies of the integration of hardware accelerators, including a custom GCD (greatest common divisor) circuit, a Mandelbrot set fractal circuit, and an audio synthesizer based on DDFS (direct digital frequency synthesis) methodology</li></ul><p>While designing and developing an embedded SoPC can be rewarding, the learning can be a long and winding journey. This book shows the trail ahead and guides readers through the initial steps to exploit the full potential of this emerging methodology