Multiplier-less realization of a poly-phase filter using LUT-based FPGAs

In DSP applications such as fixed transforms and filtering, the full flexibility of a general-purpose multiplier is not required and only a limited range of values is needed on one of the multiplier inputs. A new design technique has been developed for deriving multipliers that operate on a limited range of multiplicands. This can be used to produce FPGA implementations of DSP systems where area is dramatically improved. The paper describes the technique and its application to the design of a poly-phase filter on a Virtex FPGA. A 62% area reduction and 7% speed increase is gained when compared to an equivalent design using general purpose multipliers. It is also compared favourably to other known fixed coefficient approaches.

Is there a place for e-learning in clinical skills? A survey of undergradute medical students experiences and attitudes

e-learning is established in many medical schools. However the effectiveness of e-learning has been difficult to quantify and there have been concerns that such educational activities may be driven more by novelty, than pedagogical evidence. Where some domains may lend themselves well to e-learning, clinical skills has been considered a challenging area for online learning.