Analysis tool highlights cost advantages of CPLDs over multiple discrete logic devices

Design Automation

28 July 2004 Design Automation

Xilinx's CPLD Logic Consolidator is a new analysis tool that permits digital designers and production managers to compare costs between technology alternatives - specifically Xilinx's increasingly popular CPLDs to multiple discrete logic devices. The CPLD Logic Consolidator supports total cost analyses by providing information on component integration cost savings. With a focus on identifying Bill of Material (BOM) savings, it provides data for digital designers to evaluate using Xilinx CPLDs to either cost-reduce existing products, or plan for cost savings through higher integration on future designs.

"Advances in semiconductor process technology have driven CPLD costs down to a point where it often makes sense to migrate from multiple discrete logic devices to a single CPLD. In addition to the unit cost savings, the increased performance, reliability and reduced power requirements further validate the choice to use a single programmable device," said Richard Terrill, senior manager, Spartan and CPLD Solutions at Xilinx.

"The Xilinx CPLD Logic Consolidator provides a sophisticated business analysis tool, offering design teams BOM-cost drill down capability. This is relevant for design engineers and purchasing managers, allowing them to work together on the cost reduction of existing TTL/discrete logic-centric designs to a more cost-effective CPLD 'consolidated' approach. Beyond megahertz and other feature issues, Xilinx is addressing real-world total-cost management concerns that continuously challenge customers," he adds.

The CPLD Logic Consolidator compares Xilinx XC9500XL and CoolRunner-II 10K unit pricing to discrete logic unit pricing. Cost saving estimates are based on comparing the 10 000 unit average resale price of 7400 products in the lowest cost plastic package to the 10 000 unit resale price of the optimal Xilinx CPLD solution. Users may also specify their own unit pricing based on particular quote details. The analysis tool demonstrates how multiple discrete components such as simple gates, level translators and standard products can be replaced by a single Xilinx CPLD.

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Analysis tool highlights cost advantages of CPLDs over multiple discrete logic devices

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