QuickLogic Corporation (NASDAQ: QUIK) has recently unveiled an updated version of its Aurora eFPGA development tool suite, now in its 2.4 iteration. This latest version brings substantial improvements to the eFPGA utilization and performance for designers, with a special emphasis on the domain of reconfigurable computing. Emphasizing open-source modules, the Tool Suite ensures scalability, longevity, and complete code transparency.
Innovative Features in the New Release
- eFPGA IP with 100% Compatibility: The Aurora™ update is compatible with third-party standard cells, ensuring a broader range of application and flexibility.
- Advanced Asymmetric BlockRAM (BRAM) Inferencing: This feature particularly enhances reconfigurable computing algorithms used in areas like cryptography and real-time weight updates in convolutional neural networks. By allowing different read/write widths for BRAMs, Aurora™ reduces the need for manual adjustments in RTL designs.
- State-of-the-Art Single Stage Routing: The new Aurora™ version incorporates a groundbreaking Single Stage Routing algorithm that can improve the maximum operating frequency (Fmax) of designs by up to 24%. Developed through a research program at the University of Toronto and presented at a recent FPL Conference in Sweden, this algorithm significantly enhances Placement and Routing (PnR) efficiency in QuickLogic eFPGA cores.
- Enhanced Power Calculation: Understanding dynamic power consumption in eFPGA cores, given their extensive reprogrammability, can be challenging. The latest Aurora FPGA Tools version addresses this by calculating dynamic power based on clock frequencies and capacitance models derived from QuickLogic’s ASIC-like design methodology. This version also facilitates automated power consumption calculations across multiple designs through QuickLogic’s Continuous Integration (CI) infrastructure and advanced scripting.
- Improved Usability: Version 2.4 focuses on streamlining the design process for users, introducing various enhancements such as:
- An upgraded Integrated Development Environment,
- A new Project Workspace,
- An Execution Control Panel,
- An expanded Log Console,
- A Physical Viewer,
- Critical Path Analysis tools, and
- Detailed Timing/Utilization Information displays.
Mao Wang, the senior director of product development at QuickLogic, highlights the company’s dedication to innovation and customer empowerment: “The release of Aurora version 2.4 eFPGA/FPGA User Tools is a testament to QuickLogic’s unwavering commitment to excellence. This latest version not only enhances performance and utilization but also enables our customers to create more sophisticated and efficient designs.”