Hardware Description Languages can be used for both design implementation and design simulation. It is important to understand that certain HDL constructs that can be used to simulate a design may not be translated into physical hardware. The designer must be aware of the specific constructs that may be used to generate desired hardware. A very important thing to remember when you are writing HDL code is that you are describing real hardware, not writing a computer program.

This course which requires the participant to purchase his or her own FPGA board explores the development of FPGA-based digital systems using one of the most popular hardware description languages, namely Verilog. The course offers a deep foundation in FPGA principles, practices, and applications and provides an overview of more complex topics in research domain. Important concepts are demonstrated by using real-world examples and synthesizable codes for inexpensive FPGA platforms such as Arty-7 boards.

It will familiarize the audience with the basics of digital design, FPGA architecture, block RAM, FPGA clock management, and Verilog HDL. The following book is recommended for post-course reference: Digital System Design with FPGA: Implementation Using Verilog and VHDL, 1st Edition by Cem Unsalan and Bora Tar.