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miscellaneous-mice's avatar
miscellaneous-mice
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29 days ago
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Unable to Generate .sof File in Quartus Prime Standard Edition 15.1 – 30‑Day Evaluation Mode

Hello,

I am using Quartus Prime Standard Edition v15.1.0.185 in 30‑day evaluation mode.
My goal is to compile a design and generate a .sof file during the evaluation period, but I am unable to produce the .sof file after full compilation.

When Quartus starts, I get the following evaluation window:

The option I am using is:

  • Continue the 30‑day evaluation period with no license file (no device programming file support)

But in the evaluation mode, Quartus completes compilation, but does not generate the .sof programming file.

My Questions:

  1. Is it possible to generate a .sof file during the 30‑day free evaluation period?
  2. If not, what is the correct way to enable programming file support during the trial?
  3. Does the Standard Edition evaluation require a separate free trial license to allow .sof generation?
  4. If a temporary license is needed, where can I request/download it for Standard Edition v15.1.0.185?

System Details:

  • Quartus Prime Standard Edition 15.1.0.185
  • Device : Cyclone V 5CSEBA5U23I7

Any guidance would be greatly appreciated, as I need to confirm whether the evaluation period supports .sof file generation or if a license is mandatory.

Thank you.

Regards,
Prateek

  • No — the 30‑day evaluation mode of Quartus Prime Standard Edition does not support generating programming files, including .sof.
    https://www.macnica.co.jp/en/business/semiconductor/support/faqs/intel/118773/

    Since the evaluation itself does not permit .sof generation, there are only two valid options:
    -Option A — Use Quartus Prime Lite Edition (Free):
    Quartus Lite does allow .sof generation and does not require a license, provided your design does not use licensed IP. This is the recommended method for evaluation requiring programming. 
    -Option B — Use a Licensed (Non‑Evaluation) Quartus Standard Edition:
    A valid Standard (or Pro) Edition license will allow full .sof generation. The 30‑day evaluation mode alone will not.

    Regards,
    Richard Tan

2 Replies

  • sstrell's avatar
    sstrell
    Icon for Super Contributor rankSuper Contributor

    It says right there "no device programming file support".

    I believe newer versions generate programming files during the evaluation period.  It's not clear why you're using 11 year old software.  Download and install 25.1 Lite or Standard and see if it generates a file.  Lite is completely free.

  • No — the 30‑day evaluation mode of Quartus Prime Standard Edition does not support generating programming files, including .sof.
    https://www.macnica.co.jp/en/business/semiconductor/support/faqs/intel/118773/

    Since the evaluation itself does not permit .sof generation, there are only two valid options:
    -Option A — Use Quartus Prime Lite Edition (Free):
    Quartus Lite does allow .sof generation and does not require a license, provided your design does not use licensed IP. This is the recommended method for evaluation requiring programming. 
    -Option B — Use a Licensed (Non‑Evaluation) Quartus Standard Edition:
    A valid Standard (or Pro) Edition license will allow full .sof generation. The 30‑day evaluation mode alone will not.

    Regards,
    Richard Tan