Tiny FPGA Modules

FDB Series: Tiny FPGA Modules for High-Performance Embedded Systems

The FDB series includes FDB16 (49 × 54 mm), FDB27 (58 × 58 mm), and FDB66 (58 × 58 mm). These modules rank among the tiniest FPGA modules available on the market today, making them ideal for custom PCIe-based or standalone, space-constrained systems. Moreover, their ultra-compact form factor enables seamless integration into embedded designs while maintaining full performance capability.

Performance and Memory in the FDB Tiny FPGA Modules

Each FDB module uses an Altera Arria 10 GX FPGA, supports up to 10 GB DRAM at 24 GB/s, and includes 16 × 14.2 Gb/s transceivers (10 full duplex plus 2 RX only). Consequently, this tiny FPGA platform delivers high performance at a competitive price. In addition, the robust design supports mission-critical tasks and long-term deployment. Therefore, the platform suits applications that require efficiency, durability, and scalability.

Tiny Processing Modules with Real-Time FPGA Image Processing

Gidel’s FDB ultra-compact FPGA modules are available as compact FPGA platforms for embedded imaging systems or as part of a complete Imaging & Vision solution with real-time FPGA preprocessing, image enhancement, and compression options.

The built-in FPGA can process image data directly at the edge, close to the camera interface and before the data reaches the host system. This helps reduce bandwidth, storage, and host processing load while preserving low-latency performance for compact high-speed imaging applications.

Optional FPGA processing includes Compression, HDR correction, Detection, and additional image enhancement modules.

Real-Time FPGA Processing Helps Enable:

• Reduced bandwidth for high-throughput image acquisition
• Low-latency processing directly in the acquisition flow
• Extended recording time through real-time compression
• Lower host processing load by offloading selected tasks to the FPGA
• Custom image pipelines using Gidel IPs or user FPGA logic

For the full list of available image processing and enhancement options, please refer to the Options tab.

Integrated Vision Architecture for Embedded FPGA Processing

Gidel’s vision architecture, implemented within the FDB tiny FPGA modules, supports both the InfiniVision multi-camera vision system and the ProcFG deterministic image acquisition system. Together, they address critical embedded vision challenges, including bandwidth handling, synchronization, connectivity, and system scalability.

InfiniVision enables flexible, synchronized multi-camera acquisition across large sensor arrays, while ProcFG provides a deterministic acquisition model optimized for fixed timing, guaranteed frame capture, and line-scan–oriented pipelines. This architectural flexibility allows the FDB platform to manage multiple high-speed data sources, merge parallel sensor inputs, and maintain predictable real-time behavior.

On-module FPGA memory, advanced buffering, and deterministic dataflow control ensure stable acquisition and enable real-time image processing. As a result, FDB modules deliver reliable and predictable performance, even in compact, space-constrained, high-resolution embedded systems.

Flexible Integration Options

The FDB modules adapt to diverse integration needs. They can operate as standalone embedded processing engines inside miniature systems or as part of a fully customized solution incorporating on-board FPGA image enhancement, real-time compression, precise multi-sensor synchronization, and advanced I/O control. As a result, the FDB series provides exceptional flexibility and scalability for any embedded imaging or vision architecture.

SDK, Development Tools, and Integration

The FDB modules are supported by Gidel’s SDK with intuitive GUIs and APIs for fast system integration.
The ProcVision Suite provides advanced FPGA programming, debugging, and validation tools, enabling rapid customization of data flows and real-time processing pipelines.

In addition, the FDB series features an advanced multi-port DRAM controller that splits memory into
up to 16 parallel logical banks with simultaneous access. Each module is supplied with a
PCIe carrier board and development utilities, allowing engineers to begin testing immediately.
As a result, development cycles are shorter, reliability is higher, and time-to-market is significantly improved.

Why Choose the FDB modules?

• Tiny footprints: FDB16 49 × 54 mm, FDB27/FDB66 58 × 58 mm

• Lightweight design: FDB16 30 g, FDB27/FDB66 35 g

• Altera Arria 10 FPGA architecture with up to 10 GB DRAM at 24 GB/s

• Advanced SDK and ProcVision Suite for rapid development and integration

• Optional real-time FPGA processing, image enhancement, and compression IPs

The FDB modules are the ideal choice when your workload requires compact FPGA processing, low-latency imaging pipelines, and flexible integration into embedded or space-limited systems.

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View the full FPGA Modules range