A Simple VHDL Counter: Conclusion

An Overview Of Altera's UP2 Board
           VHDL is a very usefull programming language to know and use. Although it only works on FPGA/CPLD type devices, it's important to note that these devices are quickly becoming very popular because of their concurrent execution. Parallel programming has been becoming a hot topic because FPGA/CPLDs can achieve what no processor can, even multi-core processors (Don't quote me though, people will argue this to death). The UP2 provides a very nice platform on which to learn VHDL better and for making complex programs.


What To Do Now
           The next step, especially if you have a UP1 board in your possession is to move onto using the more advanced peripherals & devices. The board also has a Flex10K CPLD which has far more capacity and is hardwired to the VGA, PS/2 ports & other 7-Segment display. Explore some of those devices.


Conclusion
           This tutorial definitely covered what I'd hoped it would. There wasn't as much of a stress on VHDL syntax and coding as really, the code is only 1/4 the battle. Luckily for the UP1 (UP2) board we don't have to worry about hardware functionality as much since it is nicely laid out on a PCB. The 8-bit counter worked like a charm & made for a good supplemental introduction to VHDL.
           If you have any further questions, I implore you...don't be shy, take a look at the forums or ask a question there. I check them out regularly and love getting comments & questions.



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