A tool for teaching and research on computer architecture and reconfigurable systems

Labomat 3 is a reconfigurable platform for teaching and research purposes developed by our laboratory. In this paper we describe in details the hardware and software of the board as well as three application domains: logic design, computer architecture, and codesign. The main features of the board are: a microprocessor associated with two mid-range FPGAs; a set of powerful software tools going from a real-time operating system to a JavaVM; easy to use design and simulation tools, and last but not least a network interface. The combination of these features makes Labomat 3 a unique teaching tool. Nevertheless, the board may also be used for advanced research: several boards connected together can form a powerful reconfigurable parallel system.