Hackaday · Creativity & design

Exploring Open-Source FPGA Toolchains with APIO

APIO offers an open-source toolchain for FPGAs like the Tang Nano 20K, providing an alternative to GOWIN's proprietary software. It aggregates various tools, simplifying workflows and integrating with popular development environments.

APIO, inspired by PlatformIO, works via command line or a VS Code extension. It manages tool updates and libraries, though system conflicts are possible. APIO uses its own tool copies, potentially causing issues with system versions.

A basic APIO project needs an `apio.ini` file. Project creation is often managed through the VS Code extension's APIO panel. The toolchain supports both command-line and VS Code integration.

The open-source toolchain excels in Verilog linting and simulation. APIO simplifies using powerful simulation tools. GOWIN tools offer proprietary IP integration and logic analyzers.

GOWIN tools provide a GUI for constraints, while APIO uses text files or spreadsheets. The choice depends on needs like performance or IP access. Synthesis tool performance comparison requires testing.

An example LED-blinking design uses APIO. The Verilog module has parameters for clock frequency and blink interval. Programming the clock involves using the `pll_clk` command via the board's serial prompt.

The VS Code extension builds and uploads designs. Configuration allows programming SRAM or flash. Switching modes may require the APIO shell.

Testing designs with testbenches is supported via APIO's simulation, generating GTKWave output. The article also mentions live probing and future topics like metastability.

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