- 15 - 16 February, 2012
Southern Electronics - 08 March, 2012
UK Technology Day - 23 May, 2012
ElectroTestExpo
ARM has launched the Cortex-M4 processor in a move designed to provide a highly efficient solution for digital signal control (DSC) applications.
The combination of high-efficiency signal processing functionality with the low-power, low cost and ease-of-use benefits of the Cortex-M family processors is designed to provide flexible solutions specifically targeting the motor control, automotive, power management, embedded audio and industrial automation markets.
The Cortex-M4 processor features a single-cycle multiply-accumulate (MAC) unit, optimised single instruction multiple data (SIMD) instructions, saturating arithmetic instructions and an optional single precision Floating-Point Unit (FPU). These digital signal control features build upon the technology that characterises the ARM Cortex-M family of processors and include a 32-bit core capable of 1.25DMIPS/MHz for high performance, Thumb-2 instructions for optimum code density and a Nested Vector Interrupt Controller for outstanding interrupt handling.
In addition, the processor features an optional Memory Protection Unit (MPU), low cost debug/trace and integrated sleep states for increased flexibility. Embedded developers will be able to rapidly design and deliver compelling end-products with maximum functionality and the absolute minimum power and area footprint.
The Cortex-M4 processor is supported by the ARM physical IP portfolio offering the widest foundry and technology support for physical implementations. This includes the Cortex-M Low Power Optimization Package for the TSMC CE018FG (180nm ULL) process for Partners targeting ultra low-power implementations.
For Partners targeting high-performance MCU class devices, ARM also provides physical IP solutions on leading foundry processes. For a target frequency of 150MHz for next generation MCU devices, ARM physical IP for the 65nm GlobalFoundaries 65LPe process enables a standard implementation of the Cortex-M4 processor within just 65K gates and a dynamic power consumption of less than 40µW/MHz. The FPU, if included, adds only 25K gates and enables an extremely powerful implementation within an industry leading area footprint.
Sophisticated development tool support for the Cortex-M4 processor is provided by the Keil MDK-ARM (Microcontroller Development Kit) which includes the industry-standard ARM compiler extended for SIMD and FPU. MDK-ARM also contains µVision®4 with complete Cortex-M4 processor instruction simulation as well as target debugging with advanced trace capabilities.
In addition, the processor is supported with development tools, debuggers and RTOS from members of the ARM Connected Community™, the industry’s largest ecosystem of companies aligned to provide a complete solution, from design to manufacture, for products based on the ARM architecture.
