PipelineZero 32-bit Embedded Processor

Implements a small, ultra-low-power, and very processing-efficient 32-bit processor, ideal for energy-sensitive deeply embedded applications such as wearable electronics, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, wireless communication, and other mixed-signal ICs.

Thanks to its PipelineZero™ architecture, the BA20 core delivers a surprisingly high processing efficiency with a tiny silicon footprint. True single-cycle instruction execution of the BA2 ISA, zero-delay branches, no pipeline-stalling overheads, and an optional hardware multiply unit enable the BA20 to operate with efficiency as high as 3.41 CoreMarks/MHz. With no pipeline stages in the instruction execution path the BA20 uses a minimal number of flip-flops and a simplified CPU control, so its processing efficiency comes without a silicon area penalty. For example, in a 40G technology the BA20 occupies about 10,000 gates, or approximately 0.01mm2. These advantages plus advanced power management features and the extreme code density of the BA2 instruction set make the BA20 the most energy-efficient 32-bit processor currently available, consuming just 2uW/MHz on a 40G technology.

The BA20's capabilities can be enhanced with options including a hardware multiplier/divider, multiply-accumulate block, and IEEE 754 compliant floating-point units. A vectored interrupt controller facilitates timely responses to interrupts, and an optional memory protection unit protects application code and/or data from corruption.

The core's system interface uses a 32-bit wide AMBA® AXI4-lite bus. Two tightly-coupled embedded memory (EMEM) buses allow fast access for time-critical code and data, and can be used for inter-core communication in a multi-core architecture. Software development is facilitated with the included C/C++ tool chain, BeyondStudio™ Eclipse-based IDE, architectural simulator, ported C libraries, RTOSs and OSs, debug capabilities, and hardware reference designs.

Additional microcontroller peripherals may be ordered for pre-integration and delivery with the core, individually or in a complete platform.


The BA2 Instruction Set

The BA2 instruction set provides extreme code density without compromising performance, ease of use, or scalability. It features:

      •   A linear, 32-bit address space
      •   Variable length instructions: 16-, 24-, 32-, or 48-bits
      •   Simple memory addressing modes
      •   12 to 32 general purpose registers
      •   Efficient flow-control, arithmetic, and load/store instructions
      •   Floating point and DSP extensions


Customizable Platforms

The BA20 processor can be delivered pre-integrated with typical microcontroller peripherals such us UARTs, timers and serial communication cores, or with memory controllers and interconnect IP cores. Contact CAST Sales for details


Support and Services

The core as delivered is warranted against defects for 90 days from purchase. Thirty days of phone and email technical support are included, starting with the first interaction. Additional maintenance and support options are available. IP Integration Services are also available to help minimize time to market for BA22-based systems.


Deliverables

The core is available for ASICs in synthesizable Verilog source code or FPGAs in optimized netlists, and includes everything required for successful implementation. The core is delivered with software development tools for Windows and Linux, with an Eclipse IDE interface.