Altera has just announced the immediate availability of its MAX 10 FPGAs, evaluation kits, and design solutions.

Members of the MAX 10 family boast non-volatile, instant-on capabilities; dual-configuration support; embedded processor support; integrated analog functionality; embedded RAM and DSP blocks; and a DDR3 external memory interface.

In addition to Flash memory that is available to the user, MAX 10 FPGAs also offer two blocks of configuration flash. The ability to store two configuration images facilitates fail-safe remote updates -- if the update fails verification, the device will continue to use the previous known-good image until a good download of the new image is confirmed. (If the design team do not wish to use this capability, they can use the second configuration Flash as used Flash.)

The fact that these devices are Flash-based means they are non-volatile and offer instant-on configuration, which means they can be used for tasks like power-up sequencing the rest of the board (with a configuration time under 10ms, these devices support real-time applications and meet automotive and industrial regulatory requirements).

MAX 10 devices offer more than enough programmable fabric to support the 32-bit soft core NIOS II processor, with no external RAM or storage required. An on-chip power regulator minimizes the need for additional external components, as do the two 12-bit SAR analog-to-digital converters (ADCs).

The MAX 10 family is presented in a wide range of packaging options, including packages as small as 3mm x 3mm square. These devices are of interest for a broad range of application areas, including industrial control systems (e.g., robotics, machine vision, motor control), automotive systems (e.g., infotainment, driver assistance functions), communications, computing, and storage.

Evaluation kits are available starting at $30. These kits are accompanied by extensive documentation, design examples, and software support.

Of particular interest is the provision of Arduino-compatible headers -- as illustrated on the design kit shown above. This allows Arduino shields -- such as LCD displays, GPS modules, motor and servo control shields, etc. -- to be accessed and controlled by the MAX 10 FPGA.

By: DocMemory
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