Delivering High-Performance CX Through Cost-Optimized PolarFire ® Core FPGAs and SoCs
In a world where every dollar counts and every performance metric matters, customer experience (CX) extends far beyond user interfaces. It begins deep in the product lifecycle—right at the hardware level. For engineering teams, product developers, and CX strategists, the question is simple: how can we deliver best-in-class performance without escalating costs?
To help answer that, Microchip Technology has introduced the PolarFire® Core Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and System on Chips (SoCs). These devices, announced on May 21, 2025, aim to redefine cost-efficiency in the FPGA world without compromising performance or reliability.
Why PolarFire® Core FPGAs Matter for CX
CX is not only about software or front-end engagement anymore. Rather, it’s deeply tied to how responsive, reliable, and secure a device is in the field. Whether it’s medical equipment, an automotive dashboard, or industrial automation systems, the underlying hardware plays a critical role in shaping customer satisfaction.
Microchip recognizes this and delivers with precision. The PolarFire Core devices eliminate integrated serial transceivers—components not required in many use cases—resulting in up to 30% cost reduction. This makes a noticeable difference in Bill of Materials (BOM), especially as costs across the semiconductor supply chain continue to increase.
Still, the cost-cutting does not mean cutting corners.
Keeping the Best, Shedding the Rest
Critically, PolarFire Core FPGAs retain the low power consumption, robust security, and exceptional reliability of the original PolarFire family. These characteristics are essential for industries where uptime and safety are non-negotiable.
Moreover, the new devices are designed to be pin-to-pin compatible with the full PolarFire lineup. Therefore, existing designs can be repurposed without re-engineering. This accelerates time-to-market—a key pillar of a positive customer experience.
In addition, Microchip’s approach aligns with modern CX values:
- Efficiency in design and deployment
- Transparency in pricing and value
- Security-first architecture for trust and resilience
This builds confidence in both OEMs and end-users alike.
Designed for Critical and Connected Markets
From automotive systems to aerospace controls, and from medical equipment to industrial automation, the demand for reliable, cost-efficient FPGAs is growing rapidly. For these markets, mission-critical reliability is not a luxury—it is a necessity.
PolarFire Core devices address this need by incorporating Single Event Upset (SEU) immunity, ensuring system stability even under adverse conditions. Additionally, their integrated quad-core 64-bit RISC-V® microprocessor supports real-time edge processing and smart automation, both of which are foundational to today’s elevated CX standards.
Therefore, every touchpoint—be it a diagnostic result, a cockpit control, or a factory robot—operates faster, smarter, and more reliably.
Transition Made Easy: Tools and Ecosystem Support
Engineers often face steep learning curves when adopting new hardware. However, Microchip smooths that journey with a rich ecosystem and development toolset. The PolarFire Core devices are supported by:
- Libero® SoC Design Suite for rapid prototyping
- SmartHLS™ compiler for high-level synthesis
- VectorBlox™ Accelerator SDK for AI/ML workloads
- Mi-V ecosystem to expedite RISC-V development
These tools reduce engineering cycles, optimize development workflows, and make advanced capabilities more accessible. In turn, organizations can deliver solutions to customers faster, with better performance and lower total cost.
That’s CX in action—faster service, fewer issues, and lower costs passed on to the customer.
Addressing Real Market Pain Points
In today’s tech landscape, price hikes by many FPGA vendors have introduced new pressures on OEMs. They must balance functionality with financial sustainability. Bruce Weyer, Corporate VP of Microchip’s FPGA Business Unit, puts it succinctly:
“Our PolarFire Core FPGA and SoC families address price and power budget challenges directly, providing market-leading solutions at a favorable price point.”
This direct quote underscores the practical impact on developers and product teams who are striving to meet aggressive launch timelines, tight budgets, and sustainability goals—all while improving user experience.
Long-Term Value and Flexibility
What truly makes these new devices a game-changer for customer experience is their scalability and flexibility. Developers can design across various application tiers without reworking their entire infrastructure.
Moreover, engineers have the freedom to configure for edge processing, real-time control, or safety-critical systems—depending on evolving customer needs.
The ability to adapt quickly is the hallmark of a great customer experience strategy. These FPGAs empower companies to do just that.
Availability and Support
For businesses ready to build smarter, more cost-effective solutions, PolarFire Core FPGAs and SoCs are available now. Developers and engineers can reach out to:
- Microchip sales representatives
- Authorized global distributors
- www.microchipdirect.com
Additionally, high-resolution application images are available for editorial use via Microchip’s Flickr gallery.
Final Thoughts: Hardware That Elevates CX
In summary, Microchip’s PolarFire Core devices are not just components—they’re enablers of better customer experience. They drive smarter design decisions, improve product performance, and reduce costs—all without sacrificing security or reliability.
As more industries pivot toward intelligent, connected products, the demand for power-efficient, cost-optimized, and high-performing silicon continues to grow.
With these new offerings, Microchip proves that customer experience doesn’t start at the UI—it starts at the core.
Explore Microchip’s full FPGA and SoC portfolio
Visit: www.microchip.com
