Compiling and optimizing image processing algorithms for FPGAs

Abstract

This paper presents a high-level language for expressing image processing algorithms, and an optimizing compiler that targets FPGAs. The language is called SA-C, and this paper focuses on the language features that 1) support image processing, and 2) enable efficient compilation to FPGAs. It then describes the compilation process, in which SA-C algorithms are translated into non-recursive data flow graphs, which in turn are translated into VHDL. Finally, it presents performance numbers for some well-known image processing routines, written in SAC and automatically compiled to an Annapolis Microsystems WildForce board with Xilinx 4036XL FPGAs.