ProASIC3

ProASIC3 is a family of flash-based Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) developed by Actel, now part of Microchip Technology. These devices are characterized by their non-volatile flash memory technology, which allows them to retain their configuration even when power is removed. This feature makes ProASIC3 devices suitable for applications where instant-on capability and secure configuration are important.

The ProASIC3 architecture employs a non-volatile flash memory for configuration storage, eliminating the need for external configuration PROMs or FPGAs that require volatile SRAM. This approach contributes to lower system cost and reduced power consumption during operation. The ProASIC3 family offers a range of device sizes, providing flexibility for various design complexities.

Key features of ProASIC3 FPGAs include a rich set of I/O capabilities, support for various industry-standard interfaces, and integrated clock management resources. They are designed for applications in areas such as industrial control, automotive systems, communication infrastructure, and consumer electronics. The flash technology also offers a degree of security by making it more difficult to read out the configuration data compared to SRAM-based FPGAs. ProASIC3 devices are known for their predictable performance and low power consumption, making them a viable option for cost-sensitive and power-constrained embedded designs.