The Difference Between FPGA and CPLD

The two types of programmable logic chips are the Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and the Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD). The former is a “fine-grain” device, whereas the latter is based on larger blocks. The two types have different strengths and weaknesses. While FPGAs are better for simple applications, CPLDs are ideal for complex algorithms.

CPLD is a programmable ASIC device

A CPLD is a programmable IC device that is composed of a macrocell. The macrocell contains AND arrays and flip-flops, which complete the combinational logic function. The AND array generates a product term, which is the output of the CPLD. The product term number is also an indication of the CPLD’s capacity. Similarly, an AND-OR array has a programmable fuse at each intersection.

CPLDs can be programmed using a hardware description language. These languages can be used to write and test software. For example, an engineer can write a hardware description language (HDL) for a CPLD, which can be read by a CPLD. The code is then downloaded into the chip. The CPLD chip is then tested to ensure that it is functional, and any bugs can be fixed by revising the schematic diagram or hardware description language. Eventually, the prototype can be sent to production.

CPLD is more suitable for algorithms

CPLDs are large-scale integrated circuits that can be designed to implement a large number of complex algorithms. They use a combination of CMOS EPROM and EEPROM programming technologies and are characterized by their high density and low power consumption. Their high-density architecture enables them to achieve extremely high speeds and high-density operation. CPLDs are also extremely complex, with a large number of internal components.

CPLDs are also faster and more predictable than FPGAs. Because they’re configured using electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), they can be configured on-chip when the system boots up, unlike FPGAs, which require an external non-volatile memory to feed the bitstream. This makes CPLDs more suitable for algorithms than FPGAs for many applications.

CPLD is more secure

There are some key differences between FPGAs and CPLDs. FPGAs are composed of programmable logic, whereas CPLDs use a more flexible structure. CPLDs have fewer programmable features, but they are still easier to program. CPLDs are often constructed as a single chip with a number of macrocells. Each macrocell has a corresponding output pin.

The first significant difference between the two types of chips is the way that clocks are generated. CPLDs can use a single external clock source or a number of unique clock generating chips. These clocks have defined phase relationships and can be used to improve chip programming performance. A CPLD can be programmed in several ways, and the design can be altered multiple times if necessary.

CPLDs also have a lower overall cost of ownership. This factor makes them less expensive to produce. CPLDs can be used for many different applications. For example, a CPLD may contain a lot of discrete components, but it can also contain multiple programmable logic elements. This increases flexibility.

CPLD is cheaper

A CPLD is more cost-effective than an FPGA, although FPGAs have certain limitations. Because of the smaller size of CPLDs, the circuitry is not as deterministic, which can complicate timing scenarios. Nevertheless, there are a number of advantages associated with FPGAs, including greater flexibility and security.

CPLDs can be programmed using electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, unlike FPGAs, which rely on static random access memory. As a result, CPLDs can configure themselves during a system boot-up, whereas FPGAs must be reconfigured from external non-volatile memory. CPLDs are also more power-efficient and thermally-efficient than FPGAs.

A CPLD is made up of complex programmable logic macro cells that are linked together with an interconnect matrix. This matrix is reconfigurable and can support large-scale, high-speed logic designs. A typical use for a CPLD is as a configuration memory for FPGAs, such as a system bootloader. A CPLD has a non-volatile memory, while FPGAs use external memory to load the configuration.

CPLD is more suitable for timing logic

The CPLD is an integrated circuit that can perform multiple tasks. Its flexibility and programmability are enhanced by its Logic Doubling architecture, which enables double latch functions per microcell. This technology allows a smaller device with ample room for revisions. CPLDs can perform more functions than a traditional CMOS, including multiple independent feedbacks, multiple routing resources, and individual output enable.

CPLDs are more flexible than conventional logic, as they do not need external configuration memory. Unlike FPGAs, CPLDs use EEPROM, a non-volatile memory that retains the configuration even when the system is turned off.