Altera delivers all intellectual property (IP) cores, including the Nios® II embedded processor, as a single MegaCore® IP library package that is now built into the Quartus® II software download file and installation process.
Web Delivery
Go to the Download Center to access the combined software and IP file. The MegaCore IP Library is installed as part of your Quartus II Web Edition or Quartus II Subscription Edition software installation.
If you use a pop-up blocker, you must disable it to download a file. You may be prompted to complete a registration form or enter your existing account name and password before going to the download site.
See our web page for a complete list of supported operating systems.
Evaluation
Altera's free OpenCore Plus hardware evaluation feature allows you to perform the following actions with all Altera® IP cores and some partner IP cores:
- Simulate the core behavior within your system
- Verify the design functionality and quickly evaluate its size and speed
- Generate time-limited device programming files for designs that incorporate MegaCore functions or partner IP
- Program a device and verify the design in hardware
See Application Note 320: OpenCore Plus Evaluation of Megafunctions (PDF) for a complete description and guide to using the OpenCore Plus evaluation feature.
Licensing
No license keys are required for OpenCore Plus hardware evaluation of Altera IP cores. Third-party IP cores are delivered by the partner for evaluation with the appropriate license key.
Altera offers MegaCore functions on a per-seat, perpetual basis. The license fee includes first year maintenance and support. You must renew the maintenance contract to receive updates, bug fixes, and technical support beyond the first year.
You must obtain a full license for the Altera MegaCore IP core or Nios II processor core to generate non-time-limited programming files. To obtain a license file, contact your local Altera representative or Altera Tools Support.
Download Notes
- Download combined Quartus II Web or Subscription Edition/MegaCore IP Library
- Support
- Use the Altera mySupport online issue tracking system.
- Find answers to many common Nios II questions in the Nios Forum area of the Altera Forum.
- Legal Notice—Altera's MegaCore License Agreement governs the installation and use of the MegaCore IP, Nios II embedded processor, and Nios II software. The Software Subscription License Agreement governs the installation and use of the Quartus II Web Edition design software.
