Altera's 28-nm Variable-Precision DSP Block Architecture Wins the 2011 DesignVision Award

Altera developed the industry's first variable-precision DSP block architecture to meet the industry's demands for higher precision signal processing. This innovative architecture allows each DSP block in the FPGA to be configured at compile time to three 9x9, two 18x18 or a single 27x27 or 18x36 multiplier mode. Additional higher precision modes are available using multiple DSP blocks. This architecture supports, on a block-by-block basis, various precisions per block, ranging from low resolution fixed point video up to single-precision floating point within a single DSP block, and even double-precision floating point with minimal external logic. To learn more about Altera's variable-precision DSP block architecture, or to view a white paper or webcast on the architecture, visit www.altera.com/dsp-variable-precision.



Started in 2005, the DesignVision Award recognizes technologies, applications, products and services judged to be the most unique and beneficial to the industry. DesignVision Award candidates are judged based on innovation, uniqueness, market impact, customer benefits and value to society.



“A variable-precision DSP block architecture allows FPGAs to more efficiently and effectively address signal process applications across a wide range of requirements. Implemented in our 28-nm FPGAs, the variable-precision DSP block architecture supports high-bandwidth, high-precision applications, as well as allowing for more cost-effective silicon usage for lower performance requirements,” said Chris Balough, senior director of software, embedded and DSP marketing at Altera Corporation. “Winning a DesignVision Award validates the significance of our variable-precision DSP block architecture to the industry and clearly demonstrates Altera's DSP leadership position.”