FPGA-based LED dot matrix display is designed based on FPGA processor and SOPC (programmable system-on-chip) technology. It has an embedded control system composed by MC8051 soft IP core and the necessary peripheral IP module integrated in the FPGA chip as well as 16×16×3 LED dot matrix display driven by peripheral hardware circuit. The results of system test and analysis show that the system can realize scrolling display of text or image and the stability and performance of the system have been greatly improved.