Altera's 28-nm Variable-Precision DSP Block Architecture Wins the 2011 DesignVision Award

SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Altera Corporation (Nasdaq: ALTR) today announced that its variable-precision digital signal processing (DSP) block architecture won the DesignCon 2011 DesignVision Award in the Semiconductor and IC category.  Altera's variable-precision DSP block architecture was recognized by DesignVision Award judges for its ability to enable high-precision, high-performance digital signal processing in FPGAs that efficiently supports many different precision levels.  This unique architecture is implemented within Altera's portfolio of 28-nm FPGAs to increase system performance, reduce power consumption and reduce architecture constraints for DSP algorithm designers.  Altera was presented with the 2011 DesignVision Award at a ceremony held at the Santa Clara Convention Center during DesignCon 2011.

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Altera developed the industry's first variable-precision DSP block architecture to meet the industry's demands for higher precision signal processing.  This innovative architecture allows each DSP block in the FPGA to be configured at compile time to three 9x9, two 18x18 or a single 27x27 or 18x36 multiplier mode.  Additional higher precision modes are available using multiple DSP blocks.  This architecture supports, on a block-by-block basis, various precisions per block, ranging from low resolution fixed point video up to single-precision floating point within a single DSP block, and even double-precision floating point with minimal external logic.  To learn more about Altera's variable-precision DSP block architecture, or to view a white paper or webcast on the architecture, visit www.altera.com/dsp-variable-precision.

Started in 2005, the DesignVision Award recognizes technologies, applications, products and services judged to be the most unique and beneficial to the industry.  DesignVision Award candidates are judged based on innovation, uniqueness, market impact, customer benefits and value to society.

"A variable-precision DSP block architecture allows FPGAs to more efficiently and effectively address signal process applications across a wide range of requirements.  Implemented in our 28-nm FPGAs, the variable-precision DSP block architecture supports high-bandwidth, high-precision applications, as well as allowing for more cost-effective silicon usage for lower performance requirements," said Chris Balough, senior director of software, embedded and DSP marketing at Altera Corporation.  "Winning a DesignVision Award validates the significance of our variable-precision DSP block architecture to the industry and clearly demonstrates Altera's DSP leadership position."

About Altera

Altera® programmable solutions enable system and semiconductor companies to rapidly and cost-effectively innovate, differentiate and win in their markets.  Find out more about Altera's FPGA, CPLD and ASIC devices at www.altera.com.  Follow Altera via Facebook, RSS and Twitter.

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SOURCE Altera Corporation