Programmable Logic Devices: Digital Electronics Unveiled
by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023
What is a Programmable Logic Device (PLD)?
Programmable logic devices (PLD) are a type of digital integrated circuit (IC) used to implement digital circuits. PLD is an integrated circuit that can be programmed to rapidly configure, store and reconfigure a circuit to a digital logic specific state. A PLD contains programmable logic blocks that can be configured to any required type of logic by a user through programming.
PLDs contain the same features as other digital ICs, such as transistors, logic gates, memory, and digital inputs and outputs. When combined with an external circuitry, the PLD can serve the same purpose as any other digital IC, such as an addressable latch, a switching device or any other type of logic.
Types of Programmable Logic Devices (PLD)
PLDs come in several different varieties, classified as either programmed devices (programmed once using a programmable logic controller or interpreter system) or as reprogrammable devices (programs can be changed repeatedly).
Programmed devices include one-time programmable (OTP) devices and application-specific ICs (ASICs). OTP devices are programmed with software specific to the application. ASICs are designed for a specific application, either for a specific function or function set.
Reprogrammable devices include programmable array logic (PAL), field-programmable array (FPA) and field-programmable gate array (FPGA). PAL is a kind of programmable logic device containing a predefined set of complex logic circuits. FPA and FPGA are programmable logic devices with the ability to program interconnection points and logic gates.
Applications of Programmable Logic Devices (PLD)
PLDs are used in a wide range of applications, including consumer electronics, automotive and aerospace engineering, manufacturing process control, and industrial automation systems.
In consumer electronics, PLDs are used to reduce circuit board size, reduce component count and increase product reliability and durability. For instance, PLDs can be used as a replacement for analog circuitry in products such as digital cameras, televisions and radios.
In automotive and aerospace engineering, PLDs are used to reduce system complexity. They are used to simplify and reduce the number of components used and simplify and optimize the electronic control process.
In manufacturing process control, PLDs are used to monitor and control the manufacturing process. They are used to increase process efficiency and reduce downtime.
Advantages of Programmable Logic Devices (PLD)
PLDs offer several advantages over other types of digital integrated circuits, including:
- Flexibility – PLDs can be easily programmed and reconfigured for any digital logic specific state.
- Reduced Cost – PLDs use fewer components than other digital ICs, resulting in lower production costs.
- Design Simplification – PLDs simplify digital control circuit designs by reducing the number of components and connections.
- Rapid Design Cycle – PLDs can be easily modified and reconfigured, allowing for a faster design time.
- High Reliability – PLDs are inherently more reliable than other digital ICs, due to their reduced component count.
- Low Power Consumption – PLDs are energy efficient, consuming less power than other digital ICs.
Conclusion
Programmable logic devices (PLD) are a type of digital integrated circuit used in a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to automotive and aerospace engineering. PLDs provide the advantages of flexibility, cost savings, design simplification, rapid cycle time, high reliability and low power consumption. PLDs are easily reprogrammed to suit the needs of different applications, making them a versatile and valuable tool in a variety of different industries.
