Nios® II is a soft processor that can be incorporated in systems implemented on an FPGA device by using the SOPC Builder tool.
The University Program provides two examples of computer systems that use the Nios II processor. The DE-series Basic Computer provides full functionality of a simple computer, which can be used to expose students to the basic structure of computer system. An enhanced version, called the DE-series Media Computer, includes audio and video support.
Altera Monitor Program
Altera has developed a Monitor Program to allow students to easily compile, run and debug both assembly language and C programs for the Nios II processor. This utility also provides runtime information that includes the contents of processor registers, memory locations, and memory-mapped I/O interfaces. It allows users to single step through a program and set breakpoints.
To use the Altera Monitor Program, it is necessary to install the Nios II Embedded Development Suite.
Nios II Embedded Design Suite
Nios® II EDS provides the tools necessary to compile and run programs. Included are a GCC compiler, a GNU debugger, and an Eclipse-based Integrated Development Environment. To download this software click here.
The table below lists tutorials about the Nios II processor and its related tools. Some tutorials exist in multiple versions, dependent on a hardware description language (Verilog or VHDL), development board, and a Quartus II version. Use the filters below to choose the ones that are appropriate for your course.
| Filter Materials | |||
| Choose Quartus II Version: | |||
| Table 1. Nios II Tutorials for Quartus II 11.0 | |
| Title | Downloads |
|---|---|
| Nios II Introduction | |
| Debugging of Application Programs | |
| Table 1. Nios II Tutorials for Quartus II 10.1 | |
| Title | Downloads |
|---|---|
| Nios II Introduction | |
| Debugging of Application Programs | |
