In 2024, some may consider that UARTs (and RS232) are a thing of the past.
They couldn’t be more wrong !

An RS232 link is the simplest way to exchange any kind of information between to points ! From the simplest microprocessors to the most complex Systems On Chips and Embedded processors, all have at least one UART. This is a fundamental means to monitor and debug a system.

And, good news !
* A UART is very simple to design in an FPGA.
* It is a very small block easy to add in a nearly full FPGA.
* It can run at very high speeds, easily at 1 Mega bauds.

This Application Note will teach all you need to know from the low level physical protocol to the designing your own UART in any FPGA !