10–2
Altera Corporation
Stratix Device Handbook, Volume 2
July 2005
General Architecture
Logic Elements
Stratix and Stratix GX device LEs include several new, advanced features
that improve design performance and reduce logic resource consumption
(see
Table 10–1). The Quartus II software automatically uses these new
LE features to improve device utilization.
In addition to the new LE features described in
Table 10–1, there are
enhancements to the chains that connect LEs together. Carry chains are
implemented vertically in Stratix and Stratix GX devices, instead of
horizontally as in APEX II and APEX 20K devices, and continue across
rows, instead of across columns, as shown in
Figure 10–1. Also note that
the Stratix and Stratix GX architectures do not support the cascade
primitive. Therefore, the Quartus II Compiler automatically converts
Table 10–1. Stratix & Stratix GX LE Features
Feature
Function
Benefit
Register chain interconnects Direct path between the register output
of an LE and the register input of an
adjacent LE within the same logic array
block (LAB)
Conserves LE resources
Provides fast shift register
implementation
Saves local interconnect routing
resources within an LAB
Look-up table (LUT) chain
interconnects
Direct path between the combinatorial
output of an LE and the fast LUT input
of an adjacent LE within the same LAB
Allows LUTs within the same LAB to
cascade together for high-speed wide
fan-in functions, such as wide XOR
operations
Bypasses local interconnect for
faster performance
Register-to-LUT feedback
path
Allows the register output to feed back
into the LUT of the same LE, such that
the register is packed with its own fan-
out LUT
Enhanced register packing mode
Uses resources more efficiently
Dynamic arithmetic mode
Uses one set of LEs for implementing
both an adder and subtractor
Improves performance for functions
that switch between addition and
subtraction frequently, such as
correlators
Carry-select chain
Calculates outputs for a possible carry-
in of 1 or 0 in parallel
Gives immediate access to result for
both a carry-in of 1 or 0
Increases speed of carry functions
for high-speed operations, such as
counters, adders, and comparators
Asynchronous clear and
asynchronous preset
function
Supports direct asynchronous clear
and preset functions
Conserves LE resources
Does not require additional logic
resources to implement NOT-gate
push-back