FPGA-Based Embedded Systems: Design, Applications, and Performance Analysis

Amit Barsana; Shubham Sharma

Amit Barsana Student, National Institute of Technology Warangal, India.
Shubham Sharma Student, National Institute of Technology Warangal, India

Abstract

Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) have emerged as a cornerstone in the design of embedded systems, offering unparalleled flexibility, high performance, and energy efficiency. These programmable hardware platforms enable designers to implement complex functionalities while adapting to evolving requirements, making them ideal for a wide range of applications in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and industrial automation. This article provides a comprehensive review of FPGA-based embedded systems, examining design methodologies that integrate hardware-software co-design, advanced verification tools, and cutting-edge techniques like High-Level Synthesis (HLS) and Dynamic Partial Reconfiguration (DPR). Diverse applications are explored, showcasing the role of FPGAs in achieving real-time processing, low-latency operation, and power efficiency in critical domains. Detailed performance considerations highlight their advantages in parallel processing, energy optimization, and customization, while addressing inherent challenges such as design complexity, initial costs, and thermal management. Key challenges and future trends, including the integration of FPGAs with artificial intelligence (AI) frameworks, heterogeneous computing architectures, and edge computing solutions, are also discussed to illuminate the evolving landscape of FPGA integration in embedded systems. By capturing the state-of-the-art and emerging possibilities, this review underscores the transformative potential of FPGAs in shaping the future of embedded technologies.

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