configuration file in an FPGA

[shivams]

what is a configuration file and how it is loaded inside the FPGA?

 

[cmkastn]

It's generated after you build (synthesize, place & route) your design using Quartus, Xilinx ISE, or whatever tool you use. For Altera FPGAs, the file will have a .sof extension... I forget what the extension is for Xilinx.

In a lot of situations, the programming is done via JTAG. You'll need a Byteblaster or other cable to connect from your PC's USB port to the JTAG port on the board.

 

[shitansh]

For Altera FPGAs, the file will have a .sof extension... I forget what the extension is for Xilinx.

For Xilinx configuration file for FPGA created with *.bin extension,
for Altera with *.sof or *.ptf extension and
for Actel with *.pdb or *.stp extension.

HTH

 

[dilinx]

Along with *.bin Xilinx gives two more configuration files...

*.bit -> configuration data meant for other Xilinx tools like iMPACT
*.isc -> Configuration data in IEEE 1532 format.