The Howdy Glossary

Handel-C is a programming language used in the design, simulation and implementation of digital hardware systems. The language works at a higher level of abstraction than traditional hardware description languages (HDLs) such as VHDL or Verilog, making it easier for software engineers to transition into hardware design. Handel-C allows users to mix C code with RTL descriptions within the same program, providing more concise and understandable representations of complex systems without sacrificing performance or efficiency. Code written in Handel-C can be compiled directly into VHDL or Verilog for synthesis into FPGA platforms without detailed knowledge about low-level HDL constructs.