PLDs (Programmable Logic Device)

PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices) are programmable electronic chips designed to build digital circuits with the ability to reconfigure them. These devices feature programmable elements with modification and programming ability by particular programs, even if the product leaves its production sites. Furthermore, these integrated circuits (ICs) offer various applications with reconfiguration capability to perform in various environments depending on the user-desired requirements.  

How Do PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices) Work?

The integrated elements within these chips can be reconfigured and programmed by operators during the programming system through a software application. Certain devices include fuses in original forms that can be blown out to design permanent connections. The right software selection is crucial, along with the right language for compatibility with technology. The device programmer is also important for the logic pattern movement of desired hardware language onto the bespoke devices. 

Why Use PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices)?

These IC chips offer a great range of benefits, such as:

• They are more flexible when designing cycles.
• They are compact and consume less power and take up less space. 
• They have a shorter and simpler assembly process and time.
• They are cost-effective.
• They are exceptionally reliable and field programmable. 
• They offer customizability and personalization options due to their reconfiguration ability. 
• The use of a smaller number of ICs thus improves circuit reliability. 
• They are ideal for regular updating technologies due to their programmable and erasable capabilities. 

PLDs (Programmable Logic Device) Types:

PLDs are classified into several types with distinct programmable characteristics, including: 

• PAL (Programmable Array Logic): Programmable Array Logic devices consist of a transistor cell array, a programmable AND array, and an OR array (fixed) in the given sequence. These devices output a combined input in product sum formats. 
• PLA (Programmable Logic Array): A PLA includes dual arrays, i.e., AND and OR, one next to the other in the form of a sandwich that sits between input and output.
• PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory): A typical Programmable Read Only Memory, or PROM, processes inputs through a programmable OR array before passing them through a fixed AND array, which acts as a decoder. 
• CPLDs (Complex Programmable Logic Devices): CPLDs are composed of many blocks, each consisting of programmable logic devices. A matrix of global interconnections links these blocks. 
• FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays): FPGAs are two-dimensional logic block arrays that include a programmable logic matrix, programmable I/O, and a programmable routing matrix. These arrays are configurable and programmable with programmable routes that are the switch boxes or channels for interconnecting multiple pins and blocks within circuits. 

Typical Applications of PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices):

Depending on the users’ requirements, they can be used in a range of different applications, such as: 

• Signal Processing
• Data Display
• Data Communication
• Timing & Control Operations.