Fabriquez vos propres microchips !

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Problem of a Missing Chip
3. Building a Chip from Scratch
4. Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)
   • 4.1 Types of PLDs
     • 4.1.1 Programmable Array Logic (PALs)
     • 4.1.2 Generic Array Logic (GAL)
     • 4.1.3 Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs)
     • 4.1.4 Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)
5. Understanding Array Logic
   • 5.1 Designing Logic Circuits
   • 5.2 Fuse Mapping
   • 5.3 Output Logic Configurations
6. Programming PLDs
   • 6.1 JDEC Format
   • 6.2 Hardware Description Languages
   • 6.3 Using the CUPL Compiler
7. Building Your Own PLD Programmer
   • 7.1 The Programmer Circuit
   • 7.2 Using an Arduino
8. Finishing the Electronic Project
   • 8.1 Using CUPL for Counter Circuits
   • 8.2 State Machines and Counters
   • 8.3 Extending the Counter to 7-Segment Display

Building a Chip from Scratch 🏗️

Once upon a time, I found myself in a predicament. I needed to create a counter circuit with 7-segment displays, but to my dismay, I realized that I didn't have the required chip in stock. It was a Sunday, and my nearby electronics store was closed. Ordering the chip would have taken a few days, and time was not on my side. Determined to complete the project on time, I came up with a daring solution - I decided to build the chip myself.

Now, before you think this was a simple task, let me tell you that it was far from it. I embarked on a journey, armed with nothing but sand and determination. I extracted silicon from the sand and baked it in my kitchen oven. After countless attempts and moments of doubt, I finally succeeded in creating the chip I needed. Hurrah! With my homemade chip in HAND, I was able to finish the project successfully.

But wait, there's more to the story than meets the eye. Building a chip from scratch is no walk in the park; it's a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. In the next few minutes, I will take you on a journey to discover how you can still realize arbitrary logic in a chip without going through the arduous task of creating one from scratch.

Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs) 🧩

Types of PLDs

When it comes to programmable logic, there are several types of devices that come to the rescue. Let's take a closer look at each one:

Programmable Array Logic (PALs)

PALs have been around since the 1970s and are one of the earliest types of PLDs. Originally, they could only be programmed once, but advancements led to the introduction of UV erasable EPALs and electrically erasable EEPROM PALs. However, PALs have a downside - you have to choose between different types with different hard-wired output logic.

Generic Array Logic (GAL)

To overcome the limitations of PALs, Lattice introduced GAL - a programmable logic device that allows you to mimic the output logic of different PAL types. GAL quickly gained popularity, and other manufacturers such as CMOS Technology and Atmel brought their own versions to the market. GAL is often used as a synonym for this kind of E PALs, but in reality, it is just a brand.

Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs)

For more complex tasks, CPLDs come to the rescue. These devices can implement larger and more intricate logic circuits, and they often include additional features like clocks and flip-flops. CPLDs offer greater flexibility and can even realize whole microcontrollers.

Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)

FPGAs take programmability to the next level. These devices are highly versatile and can be programmed to implement any digital circuit. With FPGAs, you have the freedom to create complex designs with high levels of customization. They are widely used in industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and consumer electronics.

Now that we have an overview of the different types of PLDs, let's dive into the fascinating world of array logic and see how it can help us realize our digital circuits. But before we do that, let me ask you a question: Are you ready to embark on this journey of discovery? 🌟