Fast Fourier transform on a 3D FPGA

Abstract

Fast Fourier Transforms perform a vital role in many applications from astronomy to cellphones. The complexity of these algorithms results from the many computational steps, including multiplications, they require and, as such, many researchers focus on implementing better FFT systems. However, all research to date focuses on the algorithm within a 2-Dimensional architecture ignoring the opportunities available in recently proposed 3-Dimensional implementation technologies. This project examines FFTs in a 3D context, developing an architecture on a Field Programmable Gate Array system, to demonstrate the advantage of a 3D system.