Modular pipeline fast Fourier transform

A modular pipeline algorithm and architecture for computing discrete Fourier transforms is described. For an N point transform, two pipeline √{square root over (N)} point fast Fourier transform (FFT) modules are combined with a center element. The center element contains memories, multipliers and control logic. Compared with standard N point pipeline FFTs, the modular pipeline FFT maintains the bandwidth of existing pipeline FFTs with reduced dynamic power consumption and reduced complexity of the overall hardware pipeline.