A developer known as gdevic has designed and implemented a fully functional scientific calculator using a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) and a custom nibble-oriented CPU written in Verilog. The project, hosted on GitHub, includes microcode firmware and supporting tools, allowing users to run the calculator in a web browser with or without a debugger. This design showcases how programmable hardware can be leveraged for practical computing tasks beyond traditional software implementations.1
The FPGA-Calculator project, available under the GitHub repository gdevic/FPGA-Calculator, demonstrates how hardware description language (Verilog) can be used to create a scientific calculator from scratch. The repository contains 983 commits, indicating active development and refinement of the design. Key components include a custom soft CPU, microcode firmware, and tools for simulation and debugging, reflecting a comprehensive approach to hardware and software co-design.1
The calculator is built around a nibble-oriented CPU, meaning it processes data in 4-bit chunks rather than the more common 8-bit or 32-bit architectures. This design choice reflects a focus on efficiency and simplicity, tailored specifically for the calculator's computational needs. The project also includes a web-based emulator, allowing users to interact with the calculator without physical hardware, expanding accessibility for educational and hobbyist purposes.1
Users can access the calculator through two web-based interfaces: one without a debugger and another with debugging tools enabled. The debugger version provides insights into the internal workings of the CPU and microcode, making it a valuable resource for educators and hardware enthusiasts. The project's documentation, including a QuickStart guide, helps users set up and explore the calculator's functionality, supporting learning and experimentation.1
The repository is organized into several directories, each serving a specific purpose. The 'verilog' directory contains the hardware description files, while 'ucode' holds the microcode firmware. Other directories, such as 'modelsim' and 'quartus,' include simulation and synthesis tools for FPGA development. The project also features a 'docs' folder for additional documentation and resources, enabling developers to navigate and utilize the project efficiently.1
The project's creator, gdevic, has provided a blog link for a detailed narrative of the development process. The blog, hosted at baltazarstudios.com, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and solutions encountered while building the calculator. This resource is particularly useful for those interested in FPGA development or custom CPU design, providing context and technical insights beyond the repository itself.1
The FPGA-Calculator has garnered attention within the open-source community, with 47 stars on GitHub as of the latest update. This level of engagement highlights the project's appeal to hardware developers, educators, and hobbyists. The project's open-source nature allows for collaboration and further enhancements by the community, fostering ongoing development and shared learning opportunities.1
The calculator's functionality extends beyond basic arithmetic operations. It supports scientific calculations, making it a practical tool for students and professionals in engineering and mathematics. The use of FPGA technology ensures that the calculator is both flexible and reconfigurable, allowing for future updates and modifications. The GitHub repository provides all necessary files, including Verilog code, microcode firmware, and simulation tools, making it accessible to users with varying hardware expertise.1