openfpgaloader
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Description:
Universal utility for programming FPGA
Type: Formula  |  Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: Developer tools
Tags: fpga hardware jtag programming embedded
Install: brew install openfpgaloader
About:
OpenFPGALoader is a versatile command-line utility designed to program Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and CPLDs. It supports a wide range of hardware interfaces including JTAG, SPI, and DFU, making it a universal tool for developers. It integrates seamlessly with open-source toolchains like Yosys and nextpnr for a complete open hardware workflow.
Key Features:
  • Support for numerous FPGA vendors (Xilinx, Lattice, Altera/Intel, Gowin)
  • Works with various hardware interfaces (JTAG, USB, SPI flash)
  • Compatible with open-source toolchains (Yosys, IceStorm, Project Trellis)
  • Standalone utility without heavy GUI dependencies
Use Cases:
  • Flashing bitstreams to FPGAs during development cycles
  • Updating firmware on embedded hardware devices
  • Verifying JTAG chain connectivity and device IDs
Alternatives:
  • openocd – OpenOCD is more complex to configure but offers broader debugging capabilities including GDB server support.
  • iceprog – iceprog is specific to Lattice iCE40 devices, whereas openFPGALoader supports a much wider range of hardware.
Version History
Detected Version Rev Change Commit
Sep 12, 2025 2:21pm 0 VERSION_BUMP a7504234