PLAs, CPLDs, and FPGAs all belong to which broad category of reconfigurable digital hardware devices?

Introduction / Context:
Digital designers use a spectrum of reconfigurable hardware devices. Although architectures differ, several share the fundamental characteristic that their logic can be programmed after manufacturing. This question asks you to recognize the umbrella term for such devices.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Device types mentioned: PLA, CPLD, FPGA.
• Focus on classification, not internal architecture details.
• Reconfigurable (field-programmable) behavior is the unifying trait.

Concept / Approach:
Programmable Logic Device (PLD) is the overarching category for devices whose logic functions can be configured by the user. PLAs are early forms, CPLDs aggregate multiple PLD blocks with a routing matrix, and FPGAs use fine-grained logic cells and programmable interconnects. All are PLDs, despite differing granularity and configuration technologies.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify the shared characteristic: user-programmable logic functions.2) Note that PLA, CPLD, and FPGA each fit this trait.3) The umbrella category is PLD.4) Select option (b) as correct.

Verification / Alternative check:
Textbooks classify PLAs, PALs, CPLDs, and FPGAs under PLDs, with ASICs as mask-programmed alternatives.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
SLD: not a standard mainstream umbrella term here.

EPROM/SRAM: memory types, not logic device classes (though FPGAs may use SRAM cells to hold configuration).

ASIC: fixed-function silicon, not field-programmable by the end user.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing configuration memory technology (e.g., SRAM-based FPGAs) with the device classification itself. The category concerns programmability of logic, not the memory cell type.

Final Answer:
PLD (Programmable Logic Device)