ARM-FPGA-based training and development platform

We often see courses being offered separately for:

• Embedded systems based on 8/16/32-bit micro-controllers and programming languages like C or C++

• Digital system design based on FPGAs and/or software simulations

• Some courses are also focused on wireless networking standards (like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee), interfacing peripherals (like data converters, LCD displays, memories, LEDs, and switches)

Therefore, we felt a strong need for a unified development platform that not only offers key features of these courses but also provides students an opportunity to learn product development in an industry-like environment. For this purpose, we designed a new development & teaching platform using a 32-bit ARM processor, Intel (then Altera) FPGA, and peripheral modules for sensing/communication.

An important feature of this platform was that students were able to use it:

• in embedded system courses with ARM and sensor modules (without touching the FPGA part)

• in digital design courses with FPGA and communication modules (without touching 32-bit ARM)

(more information)