The increasing complexity of digital systems has led to development of modern methodologies in digital design, simulation and production. Collectively known as electronic design automation (EDA), key elements include graphics-based design entry and verification, hardware description languages (HDLs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs) and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). This subject introduces the electronic design automation process using the current technology in graphical tools for EDA. It will show how digital systems can be described as a hierarchical structure of block diagrams, state machines, flow charts, truth tables and HDL code (VHDL). Designs can then be extensively simulated to check their integrity, and finally compiled and synthesized in a CPLD or FPGA. Hands-on practical work in laboratory classes, assignments and a team project form a major part of the learning in this subject.

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