Which FPGA is the...? |

Which FPGA is the...?

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Every time an FPGA vendor sends me a release about a new device, they boast that it's the biggest or fastest or smallest or lowest power or...

They can’t all be the best at everything ... the problem is that each device and each family of devices boasts different features and functions, so you're always trying to compare "apples" with "oranges"...

Is there any way out of this dilemma? Is there any meaningful way in which we can compare different devices ... or are we hopelessly at sea and just have to believe (or disbelieve) everything we're told?

Discussion started by Clive Maxfield , on 21 October 12:50 PM

Replies

Muhammad Maiz Ghauri, 2010-01-11 01:06:53

I think there is no rule-of-thumb as to which is the best or fastest device. It all depends upon one's needs. Because of the integration of specialized function blocks, such as DSPs, MACs, ALUS, and hard-core processors, etc. , it becomes a necessity to find the perfect match for the target application. It’s the same case as it is while choosing between fine-grained or coarse-grained architecture. At times, the power might not be the issue, and at other times, speed wouldn't be a problem. Having an in-depth knowledge of the application AND the architecture might be the wisest choice.

Nick L-Laas, 2009-11-12 10:52:48

I would say that it all depends on your individual needs; but, if you are waiting for them to send you an email about a new release instead of working under an NDA with them to get access to unreleased products, then my guess is that you don't really need to be too concerned about their grand claims.

I work primarily with inexpensive (read: old) PLDs. FPGA vendors send me release emails and I read about the new features in my spare time, but all the new developments are of little consequence in my applications until they become old enough to be price neutral.

If your application benefits from the increased afforded by cutting edge designs then you should not be waiting until you get an email from the vendors.