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Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) Intermediate

Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) by Linux Foundation provides a comprehensive, self-paced path to mastering digital logic design and CPU microarchitecture using the Makerchip IDE. Designed for aspiring RTL design engineers, this industry-recognized curriculum removes barriers to entry by guiding you through building a complete RISC-V CPU from logic gates with no prior experience required. Over 10,000 learners have completed this training to earn the RISC-V Foundational Associate certification. You will gain verified, hands-on skills in open-source hardware development, effectively positioning yourself for high-impact roles in IoT, automotive, and embedded systems innovation.

8 Hours (1 Days)
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Course Overview

The Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course by the Linux Foundation is a hands-on training program designed for individuals with a technical inclination who are interested in hardware design, including aspiring RTL Design Engineers, Embedded Engineers, and Design Verification Engineers. While no formal certification exam is tied directly to LFD111x, the course serves as foundational preparation for the Linux Foundation’s RISC-V Foundational Associate (RVFA) certification, a credential gaining traction in the open hardware community. With over 1,200 members in RISC-V International driving adoption across IoT, automotive, and AI sectors, demand for RISC-V skilled engineers is rising rapidly among semiconductor and embedded systems firms.

This course covers key technologies including the RISC-V RV32I instruction set architecture, Transaction-Level Verilog (TL-Verilog), and the Makerchip online integrated development environment (IDE), which serves as the primary lab platform. Students engage in practical, browser-based labs where they build a complete RISC-V CPU core from the ground up—starting with logic gates, progressing through combinational and sequential logic, and culminating in a fully functional CPU implementation. Using the Makerchip IDE, learners configure and simulate their designs in real time, gaining experience with waveform visualization and debugging tools. A highlight project involves constructing a working RISC-V subset CPU capable of executing real assembly instructions, providing tangible proof of logic design proficiency.

By completing Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x), learners gain fundamental skills applicable to careers in hardware design and verification, positioning themselves for roles with competitive salaries—entry-level RTL Design Engineers in the U.S. earn between $90,000 and $120,000 annually. The course prepares students for advanced RISC-V credentials like the RVFA, recognized by industry leaders such as RISC-V International and Redwood EDA. Koenig Solutions enhances this learning path with Guaranteed-to-Run batches, official Linux Foundation courseware, and 1-on-1 instructor support, ensuring learners master complex concepts efficiently. Graduates emerge ready to contribute to open-source hardware innovation and pursue advanced work in processor design and embedded systems.

What You'll Learn

Design digital logic circuits efficiently using Makerchip IDE for RISC-V CPU development
Implement RISC-V RV32I instructions in TL-Verilog to build a functional CPU
Construct a complete RISC-V CPU core with Linux Foundation tools to meet industry standards
Configure both combinational and sequential logic in a RISC-V CPU to optimize performance
Develop microarchitecture components for a RISC-V processor to enhance scalability and reliability
Verify CPU functionality using Linux Foundation's online lab environment to ensure correctness and robustness

Skills You'll Gain

Digital Logic Design RISC-V CPU Core RV32I ISA CPU Microarchitecture Transaction-Level Verilog Makerchip IDE RISC-V Instruction Set Combinational Logic Sequential Logic Logic Gate Implementation RISC-V Assembly Open Source Hardware RTL Design RISC-V Toolchain CPU Core Implementation RISC-V Development TL-Verilog Programming

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Foundational understanding of computer architecture and instruction set architectures (ISA).
  • Familiarity with digital logic basics such as logic gates and binary numbers
  • Comfort working in a Linux-based command-line environment for toolchain interaction.
  • Conceptual understanding of sequential and combinational logic circuits.
  • Exposure to programming or hardware description languages like C, Verilog, or VHDL, and familiarity with simulation tools or FPGA development environments used in LFD111x.
  • Completion of Introduction to RISC-V (LFD110x) or similar understanding of RISC-V ISA fundamentals
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Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the LFD111x certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
LFD111x
Format
Multiple choice, labs & case studies
Questions
Duration
Passing Score
Validity
Retake Policy
N/A
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Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– Platform and Course Orientation
Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) overview Mastering the Makerchip IDE interface Configuring your Linux Foundation development environment Learning Transaction-Level Verilog (TL-Verilog) basics Accessing official course materials and forums Analyzing the modern RISC-V hardware ecosystem Utilizing live simulation and debugging tools Managing and sharing designs in Makerchip
2
Day 2– Digital Logic Fundamentals
Implementing essential logic gate structures Constructing complex combinational logic circuits Designing efficient multiplexers and decoders Building robust Arithmetic Logic Units (ALUs) Applying TL-Verilog for structural modeling Simulating digital circuits within Makerchip Verifying logic functionality via test cases Structuring modules and design hierarchies
3
Day 3– RISC-V ISA Architecture Essentials
Mastering RISC-V ISA core fundamentals Evaluating standard RISC-V instruction formats Executing R-type instruction logic Implementing I-type instruction sets Developing control logic for opcodes Connecting ALU to the instruction decoder Testing precise instruction execution flows Integrating register files with control units
4
Day 4– RISC-V CPU Core Implementation
Architecting a 5-stage CPU pipeline Implementing fetch and decode stages Building execute and memory access stages Adding write-back stage logic components Integrating the program counter (PC) unit Connecting instruction and data path signals Managing immediate value sign extension Validating pipeline stage communication protocols
5
Day 5– Finalizing the RISC-V CPU Core
Implementing load and store memory operations Adding branch and jump instruction support Resolving data hazards using forwarding Inserting pipeline stalls for synchronization Finalizing critical control signal generation Integrating all essential CPU components Running standard RISC-V compliance tests Completing final core verification process

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Career Outcomes

78%

of LFD111x certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+22%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the LFD111x certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • Digital Design Engineer
  • CPU Design Engineer
  • FPGA Design Engineer
  • Embedded Systems Engineer
  • ASIC Design Engineer
  • VLSI Design Engineer

Companies Hiring

5,000+
SiFive NVIDIA Intel AMD Google IBM Qualcomm Western Digital Andes Technology Rivos

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking LFD111x certified professionals

Real Transformations

Course Student Reviews

Real results from IT professionals who trained with Koenig — rated 4.9/5 from 18,400+ verified reviews.

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  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
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    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
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    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

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    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
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    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

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    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
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    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
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    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

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    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the LFD111x training course

Is the certification exam included in the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course, and what is the exam fee?
The Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course by Linux Foundation does not include the certification exam. You must purchase the RISC-V Foundational Associate (RVFA) exam separately for $250. While the course is free to audit, passing the RVFA exam requires a distinct registration fee to validate your technical expertise.
What training formats are available for the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course, and does Koenig offer Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling?
The Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course is a self-paced, online program hosted on edX. It is provided directly by the Linux Foundation. Koenig Solutions does not offer live instructor-led sessions or Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling for this specific curriculum, as it is designed for independent, self-directed study.
How long is lab access provided for the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course, and what is the lab environment?
You receive 7 weeks of lab access for the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course. This utilizes the cloud-based Makerchip IDE, allowing you to build a full RISC-V CPU core via any web browser. You will use Transaction-Level Verilog to implement logic gates without needing local software installations.
What is the rescheduling and cancellation policy for the RVFA certification exam associated with the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course?
You may reschedule or cancel your RVFA exam if done at least 24 hours before your appointment. Changes within the 24-hour window are prohibited, and no-shows result in a forfeited fee. You have a 12-month window from the date of purchase to schedule and complete your exam.
What is the format, number of questions, passing score, and time limit for the RVFA certification exam related to the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course?
The RVFA exam is a 90-minute, proctored, multiple-choice assessment. It covers five domains: RISC-V Overview (10%), ISA (35%), Assembly Language (25%), C Programming (15%), and Operating Systems & Tools (15%). While the exact passing score remains confidential, the exam rigorously tests your foundational knowledge of RISC-V architecture.
How long is the RISC-V Foundational Associate (RVFA) certification valid, and what is the renewal process and cost?
Your RVFA certification remains valid for 2 years. To maintain active status, you must retake and pass the current RVFA exam at the standard $250 fee. There are no continuing education credits or renewal discounts available, requiring a full re-examination to keep your certification credentials current.
What post-training support does Koenig provide after completing the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course?
Koenig does not provide post-training support for the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course. This program is managed exclusively by the Linux Foundation via edX. Learners utilize community discussion forums and integrated labs during the 7-week period, but no additional mentorship or retake services are provided by Koenig.
What are the prerequisites or prior experience needed for the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course?
No prior experience in digital logic design is required for the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course. It is built for beginners, guiding you from basic logic gates to complex CPU architecture. While basic programming familiarity helps, the curriculum covers all essential RISC-V and Verilog concepts from the ground up.
What career impact and salary potential does completing the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course and RVFA certification offer?
Completing the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course and RVFA certification qualifies you for roles like RISC-V Developer or Embedded Engineer. With industry demand surging in IoT and automotive sectors, professionals can expect annual salaries between $85,000 and $130,000. This credential significantly boosts your employability in open-source hardware design.
How does the Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course compare to self-study for preparing for the RVFA certification?
The Building a RISC-V CPU Core (LFD111x) course offers a structured, hands-on path that outperforms unguided self-study. By using the Makerchip IDE to design actual CPU cores, you gain practical experience directly aligned with RVFA exam objectives. This expert-led curriculum accelerates your mastery of RISC-V and Transaction-Level Verilog compared to isolated learning.
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