CPLD based MCU coprocessor design and experiment platform

The techniques of microcontroller and PLD are both important for modern electronic system design. The main idea of MCU coprocessor design based on CPLD is presented. This is a MCU and PLD mixed design mode for electronic system design, which acquires the advantages of both MCU and CPLD, and makes the designed system simple and efficient. The interface between MCU and CPLD is introduced and MCU can control many peripherals via the coprocessor using simple instructions. We also present an experiment platform for coprocessor design. The platform is composed of microcontroller AT89S51, CPLD XCR3256, and some other components in common use such as EEPROM, USB interface, A/D conversion etc. Students and electronic design beginners can study and perform experiments on this platform, and learn the basic skills of coprocessor design.