User guide

1–2 Chapter 1: About This Kit
Documentation
Cyclone III FPGA Development Kit User Guide September 2010 Altera Corporation
■ MegaCore IP Library—This library contains Altera IP MegaCore functions. You
can evaluate MegaCore functions by using the OpenCore
®
Plus feature to perform
the following tasks:
■ Simulate behavior of a MegaCore function within your system
■ Verify functionality of your design, and quickly and easily evaluate its size and
speed
■ Generate time-limited device programming files for designs that include
MegaCore functions
■ Program a device and verify your design in hardware
■ Nios II Embedded Software Design Tools—This full-featured set of tools allows
you to develop embedded software on the Nios II processor running on Altera
FPGAs.
■ Cyclone III Development Kit Application and Drivers—The application and
drivers allow you to execute memory read and write transactions to the board.
■ Design Examples—The design examples are useful for a variety of hardware
applications and let you quickly begin board prototyping and device verification.
You only need to purchase a license for a MegaCore function when you are
completely satisfied with its functionality and performance, and want to take your
design to production.
1 The OpenCore Plus hardware evaluation feature is an evaluation tool for prototyping
only. You must purchase a license to use a MegaCore function in production.
f For more information about OpenCore Plus, refer to AN 320: OpenCore Plus
Evaluation of Megafunctions.
Documentation
The Cyclone III Development Kit contains the following documents:
■ Readme.txt—Contains special instructions and refers to the kit documentation.
■ Cyclone III Development Kit User Guide (this document)—Describes how to use the
kit.
■ Cyclone III 3C120 Development Board Reference Manual—Provides specific
information about the board components and interfaces, steps for using the board,
and pin-outs and signal specifications.