4.4.1. Modular Design Approach

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a top-level module?

   Hint

   Think about what connects different parts of an FPGA design.

2. 2.

   Why is modular design beneficial?

   Hint

   Consider how small pieces could help with debugging.

3. 3.

   What is the primary role of the top-level module in an FPGA design?

   • Connects all sub-modules
   • Processes data
   • Stores memory

   Hint

   Imagine what controls the whole design.

4. 4.

   True or False: Modular design simplifies debugging.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Reflect on how smaller parts can make identifying problems easier.

5. 5.

   Design a modular FPGA system that includes a UART module, a memory controller, and a DSP core. Describe their interactions and how data would flow through this system.

   Hint

   Map out each interaction to visualize data movement.

6. 6.

   Discuss the potential impacts on performance when using soft IP cores compared to hard IP cores in a modular FPGA design.

   Hint

   Consider how flexibility affects speed during operation.