A simulation tool for dynamically reconfigurable field programmable gate arrays

The emergence of static memory-based field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) that are capable of being dynamically reconfigured, i.e., partially reconfigured while active, has initiated research into new methods of digital systems synthesis. At present, however, there are virtually no specific CAD tools to support the design and investigation of digital systems using dynamic reconfiguration. This paper reports on an investigation of new CAD tools and the development of a new simulation technique, called dynamic circuit switching (DCS), for dynamically reconfigurable systems. The principles of DCS are presented and examples of its application are described.