Achieving 3D Visualization with Low-Latency, High-Bandwidth Data Acquisition, Transfer, and Storage
High-bandwidth, low-latency solutions come with tradeoffs. To find the right solution for 3D visualization, consider the following requirements:
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Embedded systems have come a long way from their humble origins as simple, single-task devices. Today, they underpin industries ranging from automotive to medical devices, driven by an increasing demand for better performance and greater connectivity. This evolution has brought about a significant rise in system complexity, necessitating the use of advanced development techniques to meet modern requirements. To deliver reliable and efficient embedded systems, developers must go beyond foundational knowledge and embrace sophisticated methods.
At Fidus, we specialize in embedded software development that seamlessly integrates with FPGA and ASIC designs. Our expertise covers custom firmware, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and driver development, ensuring optimized performance for your hardware solutions.
In this blog, we will explore:
From their inception in the 1980s, FPGAs have revolutionized the way hardware is developed for embedded systems. Initially, they were deployed in highly specialized fields like aerospace and defense, where reconfigurability and adaptability were paramount. The ability to modify hardware functionality post-production has made FPGAs a versatile option for applications that demand both flexibility and performance.
As embedded systems became more prevalent in industries such as telecommunications, automotive, and consumer electronics, FPGAs gained traction for their ability to handle complex computations while maintaining power efficiency. This flexibility, combined with cost reductions over time, has enabled FPGAs to move beyond niche markets into the mainstream, now forming the backbone of critical technologies such as 5G infrastructure and AI acceleration. At Fidus, we have worked with clients across these industries, providing tailored FPGA solutions to meet specific demands.
FPGAs, or Field-Programmable Gate Arrays, are a type of semiconductor device that can be programmed post-manufacturing. Unlike CPUs or GPUs, which come with pre-defined architectures, FPGAs allow developers to define the logic that governs how data flows and processes occur within the chip. This reconfigurability gives FPGAs an edge in many embedded applications, where specific tasks need to be executed with high efficiency.
Key features that distinguish FPGAs include:
The FPGA device you select determines which design tool you’ll use, as each vendor provides its own specialized suite. Here’s how they align:
Selecting an FPGA design tool goes hand-in-hand with your choice of FPGA device. Key considerations include:
Your project’s success is closely tied to choosing both the right FPGA device and its corresponding design tool.To help you navigate the latest trends and make the best decision for your project, we recommend reading our blog on FPGA Design Tools and Trends: What’s New in 2024.
The landscape of FPGA development also includes a growing movement toward open-source tools. Open-source solutions like Yosys and SymbiFlow provide developers with more freedom to customize their tools, reduce licensing costs, and ensure compatibility across various platforms. However, proprietary tools such as Vivado and Quartus Prime offer better optimization, faster design cycles, and robust vendor support.
Which is right for you?
Here’s a comparison of FPGAs, ASICs, and CPU/GPUs in the context of embedded systems:
Feature | FPGA | ASIC | CPU/GPU |
---|---|---|---|
Flexibility | Reconfigurable | Fixed-function | Programmable but less flexible |
Performance | High for specific tasks | Optimal for task-specific designs | General-purpose |
Cost | Higher per-unit cost but cheaper than ASICs for small to medium volumes. | High initial NRE (Non-Recurring Engineering) costs but lower per-unit cost in large volumes. | Moderate per-unit cost with no significant NRE costs. |
Power Efficiency | Variable, can be optimized | High for specific tasks | Moderate |
Time to Market | Fast | Slow due to fabrication | Fast |
FPGAs offer a middle ground between the flexibility of general-purpose CPUs/GPUs and the task-specific optimization of ASICs. In embedded systems that require real-time processing and the ability to adapt post-deployment, FPGAs are often the best choice.
One of the most advanced capabilities of modern FPGAs is Dynamic Partial Reconfiguration (DPR). This technology allows developers to reconfigure portions of the FPGA in real time, without halting the rest of the system. This ability to make on-the-fly adjustments to the hardware provides significant advantages in terms of power management and performance optimization. For example, in a telecommunications system, different configurations can be loaded dynamically to handle varying network loads or power conditions.
Additionally, energy-harvesting FPGAs are gaining momentum, particularly in IoT and remote sensor applications. These FPGAs can operate on minimal power, collecting energy from ambient sources like solar or RF signals. This capability is critical for embedded systems that must operate autonomously for long periods in power-constrained environments.
FPGAs are increasingly at the heart of emerging technologies, offering unique capabilities that CPUs and GPUs cannot match:
Additionally, FPGAs are proving to be valuable in decentralized networks, such as Web3 and smart grids. Their ability to process large amounts of data in parallel makes them ideal for managing distributed systems where performance and scalability are critical.
FPGAs are being deployed across a broad range of industries. Some notable examples include:
At Fidus, we’ve partnered with leading companies like AMD, Intel, Lattice and more in these sectors to deliver custom FPGA-based solutions. Our expertise spans across the most advanced platforms, including AMD Versal™, AMD Zynq UltraScale+™, Altera® Agilex™ and more. We ensures that our clients get the best possible performance while meeting stringent power and cost constraints.
As embedded systems continue to advance, FPGAs will remain an essential technology, providing the flexibility, performance, and scalability required to meet modern demands. From AI and edge computing to decentralized networks and energy-efficient IoT devices, FPGAs are at the forefront of technological innovation. The need for specialized expertise in selecting the right FPGA design tools, optimizing system performance, and managing power efficiency is more critical than ever.
At Fidus, we bring decades of experience in FPGA design and embedded systems development. Our team has worked across industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and consumer electronics, delivering customized solutions tailored to meet specific project requirements. We understand the complexities involved in integrating FPGAs into embedded systems and have the expertise to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
Imagine having a partner who not only understands the technical details but also knows how to seamlessly integrate these solutions into your broader strategy. That’s where we come in.
Because when you partner with us, you’re tapping into decades of experience, cutting-edge technology, and a deep network of industry connections. At Fidus, we’ve helped countless companies just like yours turn their innovative ideas into successful products. We’re not just about providing a service; we’re about becoming an extension of your team, working with you side by side to ensure your project’s success.
What’s next? Let’s make it happen. We’re ready to dive into your project, understand your unique challenges, and create a custom solution that gets you to market faster and with confidence.
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We know that your project is more than just another task—it’s a critical step towards innovation and growth. And with Fidus, you’re choosing a partner who’s as committed to your success as you are.
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