Microchip SPLD - Simple Programmable Logic Devices
Simple Programmable Logic Devices (SPLDs) are electronic devices that are designed to enable a user to create and program digital logic functions without the required programming knowledge and experience of traditional microprocessors. SPLDs are composed of a small, relatively low cost array of logic gates, often referred to as cells or slices, that can be programmed to perform simple logic operations.
The most popular types of SPLDs are PALs (Programmable Array Logic), PLA (Programmable Logic Array), and GAL (Generic Array Logic). These types of devices are commonly used to solve specific problems in embedded applications where cost, speed, and functionality are essential, as SPLDs eliminate the need to purchase and learn a programming language, or even build custom logic circuits.
SPLDs make it easy to quickly develop compact, reliable circuits (two or three times smaller than discrete circuit designs) that can precisely control a set of function blocks. They offer increased speed performance and simplified system development due to their flexibility, ease of use, and reduced development cost.