Convolutional Neural Network FPGA-accelerator on Intel DE10-Standard FPGA

Abstract: Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been extensively used in many aspects, such as face and speech recognition, image searching and classification, and automatic drive. Hence, CNN accelerators have become a trending research. Generally, Graphics processing units (GPUs) are widely applied in CNNaccelerators. However, Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) have higher energy and resource efficiency compared with GPUs, moreover, high-level synthesis tools based on Open Computing Language (OpenCL) can reduce the verification and implementation period for FPGAs. In this project, PipeCNN[1] is implemented on Intel DE10-Standard FPGA. This OpenCL design acceleratesAlexnet through the interaction between Advanced RISC Machine (ARM) and FPGA. Then, PipeCNN optimization based on memory read and convolution is analyzed and discussed.