User-programmable gate arrays

摘要: A very flexible gate array that speeds the job of designing, updating, or varying logic circuitry turns standard microprocessor and memory ICs into computers peripheral equipment is examined. The gates on this kind IC are interconnected under software control, downloaded local cells from a program written by user, which can alter it almost at will. manufactured with grid interconnections consisting metal segments programmable switching points. user's defines points off, in way groups interconnects useful functions. On conventional gate-array ICs, made once for all manufacturer using photolithographic masks. Various types arrays methods programming them described. approach to designing discussed, highlighting differences process factory-configured arrays. Some example applications presented. >