The inherent parallelism of high density FPGAs, plus their ability to realize myriad DSP algorithms -- while also adding microprocessor capabilities -- has made them the logical choice in DSP systems. While not replacing the general purpose DSP IC, FPGAs complement signal processing applications so well that nearly all high performance systems rely on them. This E-cast will explore some of those COTS systems and "tricks of the trade" to wring maximum performance out of FPGA-based DSP boards, systems, and development tools.