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Flash-based VS SRAM-based FPGA

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Ansonng

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Hi,
What is the pro and con between Flash-based VS SRAM-based FPGA?

Thanks,
Anson
 

most important con of SRAM based FPGA:- need to be programmed on power up, each time, unless its got some other device to program it on power up automatically from some PROM or some thing.
most important pro of SRAM based FPGA:- Fast and low power programmabilty, Less space for storing config data

most important pro of Flash based FPGA:- Will retain the config data even after power down.
most important con of Flash based FPGA:- Design need to be secured, to prevent copying. Loss of chip area for allocation of Flash, Power needed to program and re program the Flash in case of EEPROM flash.
 

Spartan-3AN is SRAM based with Flash to configure.

ep20k
 

MAX II from Altera also Flash based FPGA
 

Hi all,

I have following questions.

1- The S-RAM based FPGA always need a bit file to be loaded from external Flash every time on power up ? Is this correct ?

2- How many times in general a bit file can be can be downloaded to external Flash ?

3- Flash based FPGA can also be programmed several times ? if yes then how many times ?
 

1. Yes
2. Until the flash device can no longer be erased. Read the flash device specification to find the manufactures maximum number of programming cycles.
3. Again look at the manufactures documentation.
 
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