Terminology » Microcontrollers » FPGA vs Microcontroller: Key Differences Explained

FPGA vs Microcontroller: Key Differences Explained

fpga microcontroller embedded system hardware integrated circuit

FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) and microcontrollers are both types of integrated circuits (ICs) used in electronic systems, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Let’s explore the key differences between FPGAs and microcontrollers.

What is a Microcontroller?

A microcontroller is a compact integrated circuit that consists of a processor core, memory, and various peripherals, all on a single chip. Microcontrollers are designed for embedded applications and are commonly used in electronic systems to control devices and processes. They are well-suited for tasks that require processing and control functions in a single chip.

Microcontrollers find applications in a wide range of fields, including consumer electronics, automotive systems, industrial automation, and more. They are typically programmed to perform specific tasks using high-level languages such as C or assembly language.

Microcontroller Examples:

  • Arduino Uno Microcontroller
  • PIC Microcontroller (PIC16F877A)
  • AVR Microcontroller (Atmega328P)
  • ARM Cortex-M Microcontroller (STM32F4 series)

Microcontroller

Figure 1: Microcontroller Architecture.

What is an FPGA?

FPGA stands for Field-Programmable Gate Array. It is a type of programmable logic device that contains an array of programmable logic blocks, interconnects, and input/output (I/O) blocks. FPGAs are reconfigurable hardware devices, allowing users to define and implement custom digital circuits and logic functions. This flexibility makes FPGAs suitable for a variety of applications, including prototyping, signal processing, communications, and hardware acceleration.

FPGA Examples:

  • Xilinx UltraScale+ FPGA
  • Intel Cyclone V FPGA
  • Lattice ECP5 FPGA
  • Microsemi SmartFusion2 FPGA
  • Aldec TySOM-3-ZU7EV

FPGA

Figure 2: FPGA Architecture.

Difference between FPGA and Microcontroller

The following table compares FPGA vs. Microcontroller with respect to various parameters.

FeaturesMicrocontrollerFPGA
FunctionalityFixed functionality for embedded applications and general-purpose computing tasks.Reconfigurable hardware for custom digital circuits and logic functions.
FlexibilityLess flexible; functionality is fixed during manufacturing.Highly flexible; hardware can be reconfigured for different applications.
Software Programming LanguageC, C++, C# etc.VHDL, Verilog
ComplexityGenerally less complexDesigns can be complex
Ease of useMore accessible to a wider range of developers; easier learning curve.Requires expertise in digital designs and HDLs; steeper learning curve.
Parallel processingLimited, suitable for serial execution of instructionsExcellent at parallel processing, enables multiple operations simultaneously.
CostGenerally more cost-effectiveCan be more expensive
ApplicationsCommonly used in embedded systems, control systems, various consumer electronicsSuitable for high-performance applications, prototyping, custom logic circuits.
Example ICsPIC Microcontroller PIC16F877AXilinx UltraScale+ FPGA

Conclusion

In summary, FPGAs and microcontrollers serve different purposes. FPGAs provide flexibility and high performance for specific applications, while microcontrollers offer a more straightforward and cost-effective solution for a wide range of embedded systems. The choice between them depends on the requirements of the specific application.