By on November 9, 2014

This is going to be the first of two classes for creating the VHDL module that will allow changes to be made on the fly via a USB to serial adapter. We created a framing protocol for sending data last class. We will start this one by implementing that framing protocol. There will also be a test bench to make sure things are working properly before uploading to the FPGA. I do not expect to finish the new VHDL module in the first class

Attendees will need an USB to serial converter either built in, or external. Make sure the USB to serial converter uses 3.3 volts, and not 5 volts! If you borrowed one last class, please make sure to bring it with you!

The slides for the upcoming and previous classes can be found here. The slides are generally made during the three days before a class.

Agenda:
1. Overview of last class
2. Review framing protocol
3. Create VHDL module to receive frames
4. Write test bench for new module
5. Time permitting: Try out with FPGA

If you would like to join the class, then please E-Mail [email protected]. The class is now to a point where you need to know VHDL prior to joining. We also stream the class on Google Hangouts. Please send an E-Mail to [email protected] if you would like to join the Google Hangout.

IMPORTANT You MUST have ISE (not Vivado!) installed prior to the start of class!!! ISE can take upwards of 30 minutes to an hour to install. We will not have time to wait for ISE to be installed. Please go to here and download the ISE Design Suite package for your operating system. If you have licensing or installation issues, please contact [email protected]

Required Items:
1. FPGA development board with Spartan 3 or Spartan 6
2. USB cable for programming
3. JTAG programmer if your board does not have USB
4. Laptop with ISE installed and either wired or wireless network connectivity

Provided Items:
1. USB to serial converter (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009T2ZR6W/) – There is only one currently available

We have been given ‘academic’ status from Digilent Inc (http://www.digilentinc.com). This means that the instructor can (sometimes) purchase boards from Digilent at the academic price. This discount will only apply to people who are attending the class regularly and is on a case-by-case basis from Digilent.

Since Unallocated Space runs off of donations, we would like to mention that the recommended donation for this class is $5. It is by no means a requirement! Attendance to the space, and this class, is 100% free to all!


Leave a Reply