Designers of FPGA applications can save time and money by using evaluation kits during initial design and development. These kits provide an easy-to-use low-cost platform for designers to experiment and prototype logic designs based on a targeted FPGA family. They allow quick access to FPGA architecture, and permit exploration of device capabilities and configurations.

Kits range from entry-level models for general-purpose logic design to advanced units using higher-density FPGAs targeted for specific applications. Each kit contains the same basic components to get designers started right out of the box: an evaluation board, design software, support documentation, reference designs, and a power supply. Many kits also come with tutorials explaining FPGA design basics, walking the user through designs step by step.

The evaluation board contained in the kit is populated by a targeted FPGA and fully integrated hardware designed to support and explore the various configuration features of the specific device. Development tools create a user-friendly environment so designers can get an understanding of basic design flow and programming control.

The kits jump-start FPGA designs by providing a pre-engineered, ready-to-use platform allowing designers to immediately begin work on their own logic design goals. They also serve as a hands-on learning tool, teaching a wide range of designers about certain aspects and details of FPGA design. This allows designers to expand their use of FPGA technology and provide product differentiation in a quicker design cycle.