# field-programmable gate array

> integrated circuit designed to be configured by a customer or a designer after manufacturing

**Wikidata**: [Q190411](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q190411)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Field-programmable_gate_array)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/field-programmable-gate-array

## Summary
A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is an integrated circuit designed to be configured by a customer or a designer after manufacturing. It is a type of programmable logic device and processor type that uses logic gates to perform specific functions. Unlike fixed-function chips, FPGAs allow for flexible hardware customization post-production.

## Key Facts
- **Definition:** An integrated circuit configured by the customer or designer after manufacturing.
- **Invention:** Invented in 1985 by Xilinx co-founders Ross Freeman and Bernard Vonderschmitt.
- **First Device:** The first commercially viable FPGA was the Xilinx XC2064.
- **Classification:** A subclass of integrated circuit and an instance of a processor type.
- **Acronym:** Commonly referred to by the acronym FPGA.
- **Function:** Utilizes logic gates and falls under the category of programmable logic devices.
- **Hardware Examples:** Notable series include the Altera Cyclone, Intel Cyclone 10, and AMD Versal.

## FAQs
### Q: What does FPGA stand for?
A: FPGA stands for Field-Programmable Gate Array. It is sometimes also referred to as a Field Programmable Gate Array or a Programmable Gate Array.

### Q: When was the FPGA invented?
A: The technology was invented in 1985. Xilinx co-founders Ross Freeman and Bernard Vonderschmitt created the first commercially viable field-programmable gate array, known as the XC2064.

### Q: How is an FPGA different from a standard integrated circuit?
A: While standard integrated circuits have fixed functions, an FPGA is designed to be configured by a customer or a designer after manufacturing. This allows the same piece of hardware to be reprogrammed for different tasks using logic gates.

## Why It Matters
The field-programmable gate array (FPGA) represents a critical evolution in semiconductor technology, bridging the gap between flexible software programming and rigid hardware manufacturing. Its primary significance lies in its defining characteristic: the ability to be configured by the user after it has been manufactured. This capability allows engineers and designers to customize hardware functionality for specific tasks without the enormous cost and time associated with designing a new application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Since its inception in 1985, the FPGA has moved from a niche novelty to a foundational component in modern electronics. The technology follows the lineage of programmable logic devices but offers greater complexity and utility, classifiable as a distinct processor type. The enduring relevance of FPGAs is evidenced by the continuous development of new series by major technology firms, such as the Intel Cyclone, Altera Stratix, and AMD Versal lines. By enabling reconfigurable computing, FPGAs allow for rapid prototyping, updates in the field to correct bugs or add features, and specialized acceleration in data centers and embedded systems. This adaptability solves the problem of hardware obsolescence and provides a versatile platform for innovation across the computing industry.

## Notable For
- **Post-Manufacturing Configurability:** Distinguished by the ability to be configured by a customer or designer after the manufacturing process is complete.
- **Commercial Viability:** The Xilinx XC2064, introduced in 1985, is recognized as the first commercially viable FPGA.
- **Industry Adoption:** The technology supports extensive series from major manufacturers, including the low-cost Altera Cyclone series and the high-performance AMD Versal and Zynq UltraScale+ lines.
- **Global Standardization:** It is a globally recognized technology with sitelinks in over 47 languages and specific identifiers across major libraries (Library of Congress, National Library of Israel).

## Body
### Definition and Classification
A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is a subclass of integrated circuit. Unlike fixed-function chips, it is an instance of a processor type that utilizes logic gates to execute operations. It is categorized as a type of programmable logic device.

### History and Invention
The FPGA was invented in 1985. The inventors were Xilinx co-founders Ross Freeman and Bernard Vonderschmitt, who developed the first commercially viable model, the XC2064. This invention followed the era of earlier programmable logic devices.

### Hardware Series and Models
The ecosystem comprises various models and series developed by leading semiconductor companies.
*   **Altera / Intel:** Notable lines include the Altera Stratix IV, Altera Cyclone series (including Cyclone II, III, IV, and V), and the Intel Cyclone 10.
*   **AMD:** Key products include the AMD Versal and the AMD Zynq UltraScale+, the latter of which functions as an FPGA or System on Chip (SoC).

### Identifiers and Aliases
The technology is known by several aliases and abbreviations, including FPGA, Programmable Gate Array, Uncommitted Logic Array, and Feldprogrammierbare Gatteranordnung. It is cataloged under various authority IDs, such as the Library of Congress Authority ID (sh93009062) and the GND ID (4347749-5). The active community is evidenced by dedicated subreddits and Stack Exchange tags.

## References

1. [Source](https://spectrum.ieee.org/tech-history/silicon-revolution/chip-hall-of-fame-xilinx-xc2064-fpga)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. [FPGA - everything about programmable hardware](https://old.reddit.com/r/FPGA/)
4. National Library of Israel
5. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)