Internal Architecture (9.4.1) - Programmable Logic Devices - Part C
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Internal Architecture

Internal Architecture - 9.4.1

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Overview of CPLD Architecture

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Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Today we'll dive into the architecture of Complex Programmable Logic Devices, or CPLDs. Can anyone tell me what they understand by CPLD?

Student 1
Student 1

I think it's like a more complex version of a simple PLD!

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Precisely! CPLDs combine multiple PLDs into one chip, allowing connections between different logic blocks. They have an interconnect matrix, which is essential for routing signals. Remember, we can refer to this structure as a 'programmable interconnect matrix' or PIM. What does that hint at about flexibility?

Student 2
Student 2

It means we can program different connections between the blocks!

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Exactly! This interconnect matrix can connect inputs and outputs of any logic block. Remember that PIM stands for 'Programmable interconnect matrix'. Let's move on to what constitutes a logic block.

Logic Blocks and Macrocells

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Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Now, let's discuss the logic blocks within our CPLD. Each block is made of smaller units called macrocells. Who can tell me what a macrocell does?

Student 3
Student 3

Is it like a mini PLD that does specific tasks based on the program?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Great insight! Each macrocell contains product terms generated from the AND array and feeds them into an output configuration. What are some components we typically find in a macrocell?

Student 4
Student 4

I remember the OR gate and flip-flops!

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Correct! The OR gate and configurable flip-flops enable each macrocell to be very versatile. Think about flexibility; you can configure flip-flops as D-type, J-K, T, or even transparent flip-flops. Let's recap the main components you should remember: macrocell functions, product terms, and their outputs.

Functionality of Outputs

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Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Next, we need to address how outputs are generated in CPLDs. Outputs can be combinational or sequential. Can anyone elaborate on what that means?

Student 1
Student 1

Combinational outputs are based solely on the current inputs, while sequential outputs also consider past inputs, right?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Exactly! And through the configuration of our macrocells, we can influence how outputs are derived from their inputs, enhancing design flexibility in applications.

Student 2
Student 2

So if I'm designing a circuit for a specific function, I can adjust how these outputs behave?

Teacher
Teacher Instructor

Absolutely! This configurability is one of the reasons CPLDs are effective in a wide range of applications. Always think of the term 'flexibility' in relation to product terms and output configurations.

Introduction & Overview

Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.

Quick Overview

This section discusses the internal architecture of Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), detailing their structure, logic blocks, and functionality.

Standard

The internal architecture of CPLDs integrates multiple PLDs with a programmable interconnect matrix and I/O control blocks. Each logic block contains macrocells, which are subsets of PLDs, each capable of generating a set of product terms. This section elaborates on how the configuration of these components aids flexibility and performance in various applications.

Detailed

In the internal architecture of Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), each CPLD integrates several programmable logic devices (PLDs) on a single chip, interconnected via a programmable interconnect matrix. This setup allows any input or output from one logic block to connect to another, enhancing the device's versatility. Inside the architecture, logic blocks consist of macrocells which derive product terms from a programmable AND array and provide output through configurable logic gates, like OR and EX-OR gates. Furthermore, flip-flops add to the functional capability within these blocks, enabling different configurations such as D, J-K, or T flip-flops. This modular architecture is particularly advantageous for easily implementing design changes and optimizing for performance in tasks like control circuits and signal processing.

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CPLD Overview

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Chapter Content

As outlined in the previous paragraph, a CPLD is nothing but the integration of multiple PLDs, a programmable interconnect matrix and an I/O control block on a single chip.

Detailed Explanation

A Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) combines various Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs) onto a single chip, along with a matrix that allows for flexible interconnections between them. This integration leads to enhanced logic capacity and demonstrates how multiple functions can coexist on a compact chip.

Examples & Analogies

Think of a CPLD like a bustling airport where various flights (logic functions) are coordinated. The airport (the chip) connects multiple terminals (PLDs) and facilitates the movement of passengers (signals) to different destinations, allowing for efficient management of many flights at once.

Architecture of a CPLD

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Each of the identical PLDs is referred to as a logic block or function block. Figure 9.24 shows the architecture of a typical CPLD.

Detailed Explanation

In a CPLD, each PLD is organized into 'logic blocks' or 'function blocks'. These blocks can perform specific operations and are connected through a programmable interconnect matrix, allowing for customized routing of signals. This design facilitates greater flexibility and capacity than simpler PLDs.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine each logic block as a separate department in a company. Each department specializes in a defined task (function) but can collaborate with other departments through well-established communication channels (interconnects) to achieve the company’s overall goals.

Programmable Interconnect Matrix

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As is evident from the block schematic arrangement, the programmable interconnect matrix is capable of connecting the input or output of any of the logic blocks to any other logic block.

Detailed Explanation

The programmable interconnect matrix allows for the flexible routing of inputs and outputs between various logic blocks within the CPLD. This means that the designer can configure how signals flow through the device, optimizing for the specific requirements of the application.

Examples & Analogies

Think of the interconnect matrix as a city’s road system, where different streets connect various neighborhoods (logic blocks). Depending on traffic patterns (signal needs), you can open up or close off certain routes, helping to direct cars (signals) efficiently to their destinations.

Logic Blocks and Macrocells

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Logic blocks may further comprise smaller logic units called macrocells, where each of the macrocells is a subset of a PLD-like logic block.

Detailed Explanation

Each logic block is made up of smaller units called macrocells. These macrocells contain their own programmable logic and can be thought of as individual mini-PLDs within a logic block, each capable of carrying out specific functions and contributing to the overall design of the CPLD.

Examples & Analogies

Consider macrocells as individual workers in a team. Each worker has specific skills and responsibilities, but they also work together to complete larger projects. In a CPLD, macrocells contribute to the overall functionality, allowing complex tasks to be efficiently divided and executed.

Macrocell Composition

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Typically, each macrocell comprises a set of product terms generated by a subset of the programmable AND array and feeding a configurable output logic.

Detailed Explanation

A macrocell operates with a designated number of product terms derived from an AND array, which are then processed through configurable output logic, such as OR or EX-OR gates. This setup allows for versatile output configurations based on the desired application.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine a macrocell as a cooking station in a kitchen. Each station has specific ingredients (product terms) available and tools (output logic) to prepare a variety of dishes (output functions). Depending on what the chef wants (the design requirements), different combinations of ingredients and tools are used to create the final meal.

Configurable Flip-Flops

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The output logic typically comprises an OR gate, an EX-OR gate and a flip-flop.

Detailed Explanation

The configuration options within a macrocell include an OR gate, an EX-OR gate, and a flip-flop, providing the designer with the ability to create specific logic behaviors and store states as needed. This flexibility is crucial for implementing various digital designs.

Examples & Analogies

Think of this configuration like a versatile toolbox. Just as different tools can be used for varying tasks in a project, the OR gate, EX-OR gate, and flip-flops offer different logical capabilities within the macrocell, allowing for a range of outcomes based on the task at hand.

Advanced Macrocell Functionality

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Most contemporary CPLDs also offer an architecture where the OR gate can also be fed with some additional product terms generated within other macrocells of the same logic block.

Detailed Explanation

In more advanced CPLD architectures, OR gates can utilize product terms not only from their own macrocell but also from others within the same logic block, fostering collaboration between macrocells for more complex logic outputs. This capability enhances design flexibility and efficiency.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine several employees (macrocells) in a project discussing among themselves to combine their ideas (product terms) into one comprehensive presentation (output). This teamwork within the organization (logic block) improves the quality of the outcome and makes for a more robust solution.

Key Concepts

  • CPLD: A complex integration of multiple PLDs with flexible interconnectivity.

  • Interconnect Matrix: Facilitates connections among logic blocks to optimize outputs.

  • Macrocells: Functioning units within logic blocks enabling tailored configurations.

  • Product Terms: Essential in driving output logic based on programmable configurations.

Examples & Applications

Using CPLDs in digital signal processing applications, like filters.

Implementing control logic circuits using CPLDs for graphics controllers.

Memory Aids

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Rhymes

In a CPLD, flexibility's key, connecting blocks with ease, you see.

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Stories

Imagine a team of macrocells working together, each with its own output and tasks, dynamically shifting tasks like a well-oiled machine, just like a factory!

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Memory Tools

CPLD: 'Collective Power of Logic Device' to remember its core function.

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Acronyms

PIM

'Programmable Interconnect Matrix' provides interconnectivity.

Flash Cards

Glossary

Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD)

A type of programmable logic device that integrates multiple PLDs with interconnect matrices on a single chip.

Programmable Interconnect Matrix (PIM)

A structure that allows dynamic connections between different logic blocks within a CPLD.

Logic Block

A basic functional unit in a CPLD, composed of macrocells designed to implement specific logic functions.

Macrocell

A subset of a logic block that includes product terms and output logic configuration such as OR gates and flip-flops.

Product Terms

Logic expressions formed from inputs within a macrocell, used for generating outputs.

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