Essential Subjects to Learn Before Studying FPGA

FPGA has evolved from an edge chip to a popular technology, indicating that domestic chips are gradually becoming mainstream. Domestic chips are expected to replace foreign chips and become the core of technology. As the domestic chip industry rises, the demand for talent in this field is growing. High salaries offered by companies attract a wave of integrated circuit talent, but learning FPGA has certain difficulties. I have compiled a guide for basic subjects to learn FPGA, suitable for both self-learners and those attending classes.。

First of all, before learning FPGA, you need to master the basics of digital and analog electronics. FPGA is primarily about digital circuit design and implementation, and having a solid understanding of digital circuit basics is crucial for learning FPGA. If you are unclear about basic concepts such as flip-flops, combinational circuits, sequential circuits, race conditions, and glitches, then learning FPGA will be quite challenging. We must thoroughly master the course on digital circuits and be very familiar with basic digital circuits. Once these fundamentals are solidified, you can develop further. The goal is to extract the structure of algorithms from abstract algorithms and break them down into specific modules that can be implemented through hardware circuits; that is when you can say you have a good grasp of it.

Secondly is the principle of computer organization: the principles of computer systems form the foundation of how computers operate. This knowledge is fundamental to the entire computer industry, regardless of how programming languages evolve or how computers develop. This knowledge will be the basis for all computer applications. FPGA is an important component in the field of computers, and mastering the principles of computer organization helps in understanding the implementation principles of FPGA.

Third is the Verilog/VHDL languages: FPGA design is mainly described using HDL languages, and you need to master one of these languages and understand its syntax and applications. VHDL: VHDL is derived from ADA, with strict syntax and is relatively difficult to learn; it has many users in Europe and domestically. Verilog comes from C language, is easy to learn and use, with a flexible and concise programming style, and is widely used, especially in the ASIC field.

Fourth is the principle of memory: FPGA is usually used in conjunction with memory chips, so mastering the principles of memory helps in understanding the connections and applications of FPGA with other chips.

Lastly are knowledge areas such as signal processing, embedded systems, and embedded programming, which can be applied in real-world scenarios using FPGA for development and application.

In summary, while getting started with FPGA is easy, mastering it is difficult. To get started, buy a development board and follow along; many people can quickly familiarize themselves with the development software and light up the LED on the development board or implement a simple running light project. However, progress often slows down afterward. Only by establishing a solid foundation can breakthroughs occur later. I hope everyone learning FPGA can eventually become an expert and design their perfect circuits.

The Chengdu Youth FPGA 100-Day Order Class is now open!!! The think tank platform offers synchronous online and offline learning. Series of courses such as “Eight Lessons for FPGA Beginners”, “Ten Projects for FPGA Beginners”, “Five Advanced Projects for FPGA” are available. The courses start from zero basics, with each lesson including a small experiment, allowing for gradual learning of FPGA courses.

Currently, Chengdu Youth has supplied many companies with advanced FPGA talent, with salaries exceeding those of peers by 52%, and an employment rate of 100%.

• Target Audience:

• ① University students or teachers planning to engage in FPGA engineering;

• ② Professionals aiming for high salary transitions and those changing industries;

• ③ FPGA engineers wanting to deepen their knowledge;

• ④ Students in their first to fourth years and graduate students who want to explore development in the integrated circuit industry after graduation.

• Through the FPGA courses at Chengdu Youth, you can:

• ① Master the basics of FPGA and develop practical skills;

• ② Gain a deep understanding of the FPGA development process and techniques;

• ③ Achieve high salary transitions, with a monthly salary of over 10,000.