Verilog Code for Decimal to Binary Conversion: A Simplified Approach

When it comes to converting decimal numbers to binary in Verilog, one common approach is to use multiplication instead of division. This technique allows us to avoid synthesizing division, which can be a complex process. In this article, we'll explore how to write Verilog code for decimal to binary conversion using multiplication.

Verilog's ability to synthesize addition, subtraction, and multiplication on FPGAs makes it an ideal language for fixed-point arithmetic. By representing numbers in fixed-point format, we can perform mathematical operations with ease. In our examples, we'll use the Q4.4 notation, which represents a number with four integer bits and four fractional bits.

To illustrate this concept, let's consider the decimal value 0100.1100. This binary representation has four integer bits (0100) and four fractional bits (1100). To convert this decimal value to binary, we can multiply each bit by its corresponding power of two. For example, the first integer bit (2^3) would be multiplied by 0, since it's a zero.

In Verilog, we can represent this fixed-point number using multiplication instead of division. We'll use the multiplication operator (*) and assign the result to a variable. Here's an example code snippet:

```verilog

wire '7:0' decimal = 8'd10; // decimal value 10

wire '15:0' binary;

assign binary = (decimal * 2^4) + (decimal * 1/16);

```

In this example, we're multiplying the decimal value by 2^4 and then adding the result to another term that represents the fractional part. The multiplication operator (*) is used to perform the fixed-point arithmetic.

By using this approach, we can convert decimal numbers to binary without synthesizing division. This technique is particularly useful when working with FPGAs, which often have dedicated DSP blocks for fast multiplication and addition of integers.

In conclusion, writing Verilog code for decimal to binary conversion involves representing numbers in fixed-point format and using multiplication instead of division. By leveraging Verilog's ability to synthesize addition, subtraction, and multiplication on FPGAs, we can perform mathematical operations with ease. This simplified approach makes it easier to convert decimal values to binary, making it a valuable technique for digital design engineers.