A 27 MHz Programmable Module for VSP

This paper describes a programmable logic module for the real-time processing of video signals. This module is part of a set of programmable modules, sharing a common communication strategy, that can be combined to realise an Integrated Circuit capable of handling complex video algorithms. The inputs to the module are first selected via a switch matrix and then stored in a two-port dynamic RAM to increase scheduling flexibility. Logic and Arithmetic operations are then performed using an ALU preceded by a set of barrel-shifters. A flexible instruction set is offered by the former, including data-dependent instructions. All sub-blocks are fully programmable using a central program-memory which is loaded via a serial interface. Extensive pipelining and an execution rate of one instruction per clock cycle contribute to a high processing throughput. Parameterized layout generators are used to facilitate ease of modification.