TanumaHideki / ReLM-PoC

ReLM is the soft-core multiprocessor technology based on the unique memory architecture, enabling users to build a high-performance microcontroller on a relatively small FPGA board.

ReLM: Proof of Concept

ReLM = Register-Less Multiprocessor

ReLM is the soft-core multiprocessor technology based on the unique memory architecture, enabling users to build a high-performance microcontroller on a relatively small FPGA board.

The most annoying task in developing on a FPGA board is logic synthesis, however, is not required for changing applications (software) with ReLM architecture.
This advantage of ReLM supports users in easily designing circuits on a FPGA board.

For Further Reading...

• ReLM Introduction (English) (Japanese)
• ReLM Instruction Set (English) (Japanese)
• ReLM Development Environment (English) (Japanese)
• ReLM Application Development (English) (Japanese)
• ReLM Customizing (English) (Japanese)
• Python API Reference (English)

Very Old Article...

• relm.info - Register-less Multiprocessor Information (English) (Japanese)

Software Requirements

• Windows (OS for running the following software)
• Python (Newest version recommended, at least, 3.8 or later)
• Quartus Prime (Newest version recommended)
• Visual Studio Code (Recommended)

Hardware Requirements

• Host PC (PC running the above software)
• FPGA: Terasic DE0-CV Board
  • This board has been discontinued, so we are currently preparing the next target board.
  • Next target candidate: Terasic Cyclone V GX Starter Kit
• VGA display
• PS/2 keyboard (option)

Getting Started - Playable PoC "Bubble Estate"

1. de0cv / relm_de0cv.py
   • Execute "relm_de0cv.py".
   • Create code??.txt, data??.txt in "de0cv / loader" folder.
2. de0cv / loader / relm_de0cv.qpf
   • Open "relm_de0cv.qpf" to start up Quartus Prime for logic synthesis.
   • Create "de0cv / loader / output_files / relm_de0cv.svf".
3. de0cv / loader / relm_test_led.py (Omittable)
   • Execute "relm_test_led.py".
   • Confirm the LED display of "HELLO_" on the FPGA board.
   • This process is omittable.
4. de0cv / bubble / relm_bubble.py
   • Execute "relm_bubble.py".
   • Confirm the LED display of "Play" on the FPGA board.
   • Connect a VGA display to the board, then you can play the game.
   • Attaching a PS/2 keyboard would make it much easier to play the game.

The game begins with two-page explanation, and advances to play by pressing Enter key.

A PS/2 keyboard would give better operability, but can be substituted by the buttons on the FPGA board.

The FPGA board has switches to change Human / CPU. ("SW0" corresponds to "You")