# FPGA Programming syllabus

Implementing digital circuits with Systemverilog

4 SWS, 5 ECTS, in degree program {abbr}`AI (Angewandte Informatik, applied computer science)` Master and as {abbr}`FWP (fachwissenschaftliches Wahlpflichtfach, special (not general) compulsory optional subject)` in {abbr}`ET (Elektrotechnik, electrical engineering)` Master

## Intended learning outcomes

The purpose of the course is for you (the student) to learn to:

- explain the typical structure of FPGAs
- differentiate a hardware description language from a typical programming language, e.g., regarding structure and purpose
- use Systemverilog and a state-of-the-art FPGA development tool to develop circuits on an FPGA
- differentiate between structural and behavioral design approaches
- analyze behavioral description and write code that implement the behavior
- classify which data processing tasks are better suited for FPGAs than general processors
- cooperate in a pair programming setting
- evaluate someone else's work and give constructive feedback (e.g., in context of peer-assessed exercises)

## Prerequisites

- Fundamental programming tools (e.g, control flow, data structures, functions)
- Digital logic (e.g., transistor, logic gate, K-map, SOP, POS, multiplexer, counter)
<!--
- Computer architecture (e.g., ALU, cache, memory, peripherals)
 for RISC-V -->

The learning materials contain a graceful introduction to digital logic so you can still attend the course if you do not have any experience with digital logic. But expect more workload in this case.

## Content (what we do to reach the learning outcomes)

- Getting started with the FPGA board
- Implementation (including testing using testbenches) of:
  - combinational logic, e.g., multiplexer, decoder, shifter, encoder
  - sequential logic, e.g., flip-flop, latch, counter, memory
  - arithmetic circuits, e.g., adder, multiplier
  - state machines
  - a digital system: reaction time monitor

## Didactic methods

To reach the learning outcomes we will use the following didactic methods:

- [Flipped classroom](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flipped_classroom)
- Labs with feedback sessions and [pair programming](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pair_programming)

  During the labs you are encouraged to work with a partner in a pair programming setting. Your partner and the instructor will give you feedback.

- Mini projects on the FPGA

  Every week there will be problems that you must solve on an FPGA board.

## Grading

Written exam 90 min.

The examination is based on the intended learning outcomes.

## Materials

- [Digital logic course by Realdigital](https://www.realdigital.org/course/digital-logic-for-the-boolean-board)
  - Lecture videos related to the content can be found in the section *Lectures* on [EE214 course page from Washington State University](https://eecs.wsu.edu/~ccole/ee214/)
- Accompanying lecture notes: [Digital logic notes](https://aydos.de/digital-logic)
- Realdigital Boolean FPGA board will be provided by the instructor that you may use during the class. It is not possible to borrow a board for home. If you want to work at home, please buy one.

Additional: 

- [FPGA Design for Embedded Systems Specialization – Coursera](https://www.coursera.org/specializations/fpga-design)