reconfigurable

Reconfigurable refers to systems, components, or processes that can change their configuration after initial deployment in order to adapt to different requirements, environments, or tasks. This capability allows a single platform to support multiple functions without replacing hardware.

In computing and electronics, reconfigurable architectures are common. The field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is the primary example, enabling users to load a configuration that defines the circuitry implemented on the device. Reconfigurable computing also includes techniques such as dynamic partial reconfiguration, where portions of hardware can be reprogrammed while other parts remain operational, and coarse-grained reconfigurable arrays for adapting processing elements to different workloads.

Other domains employ reconfigurability as well. Reconfigurable networks, including software-defined networking, allow the network behavior and topology to be altered through software. Reconfigurable robots and modular hardware systems can adjust their structure or capabilities to handle new tasks. In manufacturing, reconfigurable manufacturing systems use flexible equipment and processes to switch quickly between product families.

Design and implementation of reconfigurable systems involve trade-offs among performance, power, area, and complexity. Toolchains for hardware-software co-design, verification of reconfiguration flows, and managing reconfiguration latency are important considerations. Security and reliability must address potential vulnerabilities introduced by changing configurations.

Applications span telecommunications, digital signal processing, data centers, automotive and aerospace sectors, and research environments. The core idea of reconfigurability is to increase flexibility and longevity by enabling systems to adapt to evolving requirements without full hardware replacement.