Forum Discussion
Altera_Forum
Honored Contributor
18 years ago --- Quote Start --- Can a CyClone II FPGA run for 12-14 hours a day and not malfunction? Do you think a CPU fan would make it run longer. --- Quote End --- You can keep your FPGA powered on and operating continuously as long as you operate it within the limits in the data sheet (the Cyclone II device handbook in this case). That includes keeping the junction temperature within the spec limits. Quartus can run a power analysis that accounts for the operating conditions. If Quartus says the junction temperature is OK with no air flow, then you don't need a fan. Just keep in mind that Quartus is estimating the power based on the information you provide, and simulation data with representative toggle rates for internal signals is required for the most accurate estimate.