In AHDL (Altera Hardware Description Language) macrofunctions, what is the first thing that should go into any source file to properly document and structure your code?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: a field of comments that documents

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Clear documentation at the top of a hardware description file prevents confusion during design reviews and maintenance. In AHDL macrofunctions, starting with a descriptive comment block is a widely taught practice that records intent, interfaces, and revision history before any executable declarations appear.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Language context: AHDL macrofunctions used in programmable logic design.
  • Goal: establish what should appear first in a new source file.
  • Best practice: human-readable documentation precedes code.


Concept / Approach:
A top-of-file comment header helps future readers quickly understand the module's purpose, I/O ports, timing assumptions, device targets, constraints, and authorship. This aligns with professional workflows where linting, code reviews, and team handoffs rely on concise, accurate file headers to reduce integration time and misinterpretation.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Start a new AHDL file.Insert a header comment with module name, brief description, ports, parameters, revision/date, and author.Only after documentation, declare libraries, entities, and architectures/macros.Maintain the header over time to reflect changes.


Verification / Alternative check:
Team standards and style guides typically require a header block; repositories often reject files missing basic headers during code review or CI checks.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • a library of: Library/use clauses are important but normally follow the header comment.
  • a function name of: Naming alone lacks context and documentation.
  • the universal global definition of: Vague and not a standard file-start requirement.


Common Pitfalls:
Skipping headers to “save time,” leading to confusion later; failing to update the header after changes; placing heavy commentary mid-file instead of at the top.


Final Answer:
a field of comments that documents

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