Nios® II is a soft processor that can be incorporated in systems implemented on an FPGA device by using the SOPC Builder tool.
The University Program provides two examples of computer systems that use the Nios II processor. The DE-Series Basic Computer provides full functionality of a simple computer, which can be used to expose students to the basic structure of computer system. An enhanced version, called the DE-Series Media Computer, includes audio and video support.
Altera Monitor Program
Altera has developed a Monitor Program to allow students to easily compile, run and debug both assembly language and C programs for the Nios II processor. This utility also provides runtime information that includes the contents of processor registers, memory locations, and memory-mapped I/O interfaces. It allows users to single step through a program and set breakpoints.
To use the Altera Monitor Program, it is necessary to install the Nios II Embedded Development Suite.
Nios II Embedded Design Suite
Nios® II EDS provides the tools necessary to compile and run programs. Included are a GCC compiler, a GNU debugger, and an Eclipse-based Integrated Development Environment. To download this software click here.
| Table 1. Nios II Tutorials for Quartus II 9.0 and 9.1 | |
| Title | Downloads | Nios II Introduction |
|---|---|
| Debugging of Application Programs on Altera’s DE-Series Boards | |
