Serial configuration devices include the features shown in Table 1.
| Table 1. Serial Configuration Device Features | |
|---|---|
| Feature | Description |
| Low-Cost Leadership | Serial configuration devices are designed for low cost. They are the ideal complement to the Cyclone® FPGA series and Arria® FPGA series to create the lowest-cost system-on-a-programmable-chip (SOPC) solution. They also serve as a low-cost, small-form factor solution for the Stratix® FPGA series. |
| In-System Programmability (ISP) | ISP increases design flexibility by allowing in-system design updates and reduces costs by streamlining the manufacturing process. |
| Memory Access | Several interface peripherals available with the Nios® and Nios II embedded processors allow you to access the serial configuration device as a memory module connected to your embedded system. Device memory capacity not consumed storing configuration data can be used as general-purpose non-volatile memory, which is perfect for program and data storage. You can also use a Nios II processor to modify configuration data, which is useful for in-field system upgrades. |
| Small Form Factor | The serial configuration devices are available in space-saving 8-pin and 16-pin small-outline integrated circuit (SOIC) packages. |
