Build the Brain of an IoT Device is an interactive hands-on workshop organized by VLSITE during graVITas 2026 to introduce students to the exciting world of FPGA technology and its role in modern IoT systems. Unlike conventional software-based workshops, this session focuses on designing digital hardware that acts as the “brain” of intelligent devices. Through live demonstrations and guided practical exercises, participants will understand how Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) process inputs, make decisions, and control outputs in real-time applications. The workshop is specifically designed for beginners and is ideal for first and second-year engineering students with little or no prior FPGA experience. Participants will learn the fundamentals of digital logic, combinational and sequential circuits, finite state machines, simulation, synthesis, and FPGA programming using industry-standard development tools. Using only FPGA development boards, switches, LEDs, and a projector, participants will implement a smart traffic controller and gradually extend it into an IoT-inspired system by adding features such as pedestrian crossings, emergency vehicle priority, and night mode. The session will also demonstrate how these FPGA-based controllers integrate with sensors, wireless communication, and cloud platforms in real-world IoT deployments. By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained practical exposure to FPGA development workflows and a strong understanding of how digital hardware powers applications in autonomous vehicles, industrial automation, medical electronics, communication systems, and smart city infrastructure. The event aims to inspire students to explore careers in VLSI, Embedded Systems, FPGA Design, Digital Electronics, and Hardware Engineering while providing an engaging learning experience through live demonstrations and hands-on implementation.

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