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Synthesis of complex stereo waveforms with CPLD programmable logic core. (Lattice ispLSI1032E).

If you are comfortable designing DIY digital circuitry with 7400 / CD4k chips, look into CPLDs, they are amazing. Inside a CPLD is a collection of primitive logic elements equivalent to hundreds of 7400/CD4k chips, and through the magic of logic synthesis, these elements are configured by software to realize your circuit. Its like a dream where the chips jump up and plug themselves into your breadboard, and wires magically appear to fulfill the schematics you draw on the screen. Plus they are erasable/reconfigurable indefinitely. It is a very futuristic feeling to use this technology.

I used Lattice's free software environment ispLEVER Classic 1.4 and the ispDOWNLOAD USB JTAG programmer (~$80) to configure these devices.

This is a nice way to familiarize oneself with the toolchain. Once a few more concepts are in place, the power of FPGAs will be accessible.

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• CPLD
• FPGA
• synthesizer
• synth