Software and IP cost viability for home use

Thanks very much for the answers everyone. Ted - that is indeed what i'm after!

Thanks for the explanation about "time limited" for the IP Cores. I expected that it meant they would stop working a certain time after installation (e.g. 30 days). What you described is fine - tied to one PC and limited for development purposes.

Overall, my intention is not so much using it as a "hobbyist" but as familiarization and experimentation for using in a professional environment, in the same way that it is now easy with OpenSource software.

I see that Quartus Web Edition II is shipped with the Kit and I checked the differences here (https://www.altera.com/content/dam/altera-www/global/en_us/pdfs/literature/po/ss_quartussevswe.pdf).

Galfonz - when I look in the cyclone iv gx kit notes (https://www.altera.com/products/boards_and_kits/dev-kits/altera/kit-cyclone-iv-starter.html)

it does say:

"the following tools are included:

quartus prime lite edition

megacore® ip library including pci express, triple speed ethernet, and the nios ii processor "

.. so according to TCWORLD and ted looks like I can expect to get the PCIe and Gbe on this board working using the Quartus Lite/Web and "OpenCore Plus" without having to license either.

Still, I think I need to take Tricky's advice and ask Altera to confirm this before I buy the board. I must say, the licensing is looking pretty complicated!

Thanks

CMG