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Altera_Forum
Honored Contributor
Honored ContributorDUMMY Question
Hello folks. Total newbie here. This is probably going to be the dumbest question of all times, but as I need the answer, I figured, it would be even dumber not to ask. :p The question is...
Altera_ForumHonored Contributor
Honored Contributor --- Quote Start --- I currently work with small audio and MIDI projects for the classroom, for which the microcontrollers are just fine. On the other hand, I've been thinking about the implementation of real-time FIR filters and other stuff, for which I think CPLD's could be far better. --- Quote End --- If you are planning on performing DSP operations in FPGAs or CPLDs, then I would recommend you take a closer look at FPGAs. The MAX II and MAX V CPLDs are targeted for control applications, so they do not have DSP blocks, internal RAM, or PLL blocks (though I think the MAX V does have a PLL). Take a look at the handbook for the Cyclone IV and V devices and you will see descriptions of these features. --- Quote Start --- Nevertheless, I won't go as far as working with FPGA's for the moment. I was thinking about Max II or MaxV to begin. --- Quote End --- Buy a Terasic DE0-nano to get started. http://www.terasic.com.tw/cgi-bin/page/archive.pl?language=english&categoryno=139&no=593 --- Quote Start --- Once the thing is fully assembled, I just use a JTAG interface to program the CPLD's IN PLACE. --- Quote End --- The MAX II/V devices have internal memory, so all you need is the FPGA and a JTAG connector. The Cyclone devices need an additional external configuration memory device. Cheers, Dave
