FPGAs — Programmable technologies used internally Modern FPGA families can be implemented with different configuration technologies. Which of the following are used across various vendors and generations?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) store configuration data that defines logic, routing, and I/O behavior. Vendors have adopted multiple nonvolatile and volatile technologies to hold this configuration, each with trade-offs in reprogrammability, power, security, and radiation tolerance.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • SRAM-based FPGAs use external or on-chip memory to load bitstreams at power-up; they are fully reprogrammable.
  • FLASH-based FPGAs retain configuration without external memory and allow many reprogram cycles.
  • Antifuse FPGAs are one-time programmable with very robust, permanent connections.


Concept / Approach:
Across the industry, all three technologies have been used. Therefore, a correct high-level answer must include them collectively, not a single technology. Selecting “All of the above” accurately reflects the diversity of implementation technologies.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Evaluate SRAM: dominant for high-end, reconfigurable parts.Evaluate FLASH: used in nonvolatile, low-power families.Evaluate Antifuse: used where one-time programmability and radiation hardness are desirable.Conclusion: all listed technologies are used in FPGAs.


Verification / Alternative check:
Vendor literature shows SRAM (volatile), FLASH (nonvolatile), and Antifuse (OTP) product lines, confirming the breadth of approaches.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Choosing only one technology ignores substantial segments of the FPGA market.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming only SRAM exists because it dominates high-end devices; many embedded FPGAs are FLASH-based, and Antifuse remains relevant in niche applications.


Final Answer:
All of the above

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