Hello,
I'm getting a bachelors in Computer Engineering, and as a side project I would like to build a Spartan3 parallel ATA-3 (ide) interface. I've downloaded a copy of the ATA-3 specs (since this is free (and deprecated!)) and have an old hdd lying around. Looking at the voltage differences between the Spartan3 and the IDE interface, it is my guess that I don't need to do any fancy voltage level adjustments, just put 10 Ohm resistors in the path for unidirectional lines, and 100 Ohm resistors for the bi-directional lines.
Does anyone have any helpful comments on this? I've tried google, and I came across a company who had a ATA interface (though their board was different, Spartan II as well) and that is all they (appeared) to have, this makes sense to me.
Also, I will be starting a senior design project soon. My primary goal when I graduate is to move in to embedded devices/FPGA's. What would be a good senior project (from the employers perspective) and what should I have on my resume' to make me stand out (beside the VFW, 2nd bach part I already have ;) ).
Thank you in advance. Rob Elsner