Biprocessor SoC in an FPGA for Teaching Purposes

Abstract

Computer architecture science evolves continuously. This work describes a methodology to teach a system which is integrated by several processors in just one chip. The description of how to implement a biprocessor system within an FPGA is proposed. Thus, the student will simultaneously acquire advanced knowledge on microprocessors, focusing on the operational behavior and structure of a biprocessor system, which they implement in a real device. Finally, a software layer is provided to execute an application, which proves how the system works. The accomplishment of this practice has been carried out in the first four-month period of 2007 in the 4th year subject ldquoDigital Electronic Systemsrdquo of the Engineering Degree in Automatics and Electronics at the University of Cordoba.