The Howdy Glossary

FpgaC is a high-level synthesis language and compiler tailored for field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), enabling code to be written in C instead of traditional hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog. By automating the generation of complex HDL from higher-level instructions, it simplifies FPGA development, making it accessible to those more comfortable with software programming. This approach accelerates design processes and minimizes errors that typically arise from manual translation between software and hardware-centric languages.

Developed by specialists in FPGA technology and high-level synthesis, FpgaC bridges the gap between software development and FPGA programming. Unlike its competitors such as Vivado HLS from Xilinx, Catapult HLS from Mentor, and LegUp from the University of Toronto—each designed for higher levels of abstraction—FpgaC distinguishes itself by focusing on the simplicity of using C for FPGA programming. This focus allows software developers with limited knowledge of digital logic design to efficiently implement functions on FPGAs through automated HDL generation.

FpgaC's competitive advantage lies in streamlining the FPGA programming process for software developers. By abstracting low-level details and facilitating faster design iterations with fewer errors, it broadens access to FPGA technology beyond traditionally trained digital logic designers. The tool's ability to convert higher-level instructions into complex HDL without requiring expertise in VHDL or Verilog significantly enhances development efficiency within software-centric environments.