BA22 Cache-Enabled Embedded Processor

Implements a 32-bit processor for deeply embedded applications that use off-chip instruction and data memories and that may need to run a real-time operating system (RTOS). Part of the royalty-free BA22 family, this processor core is extremely competitive in terms of high performance and low power consumption, and has best-in-class code density.

The core has Instruction and Data Caches, optional dedicated buses for tightly coupled on-chip Instruction and Data memories, and an AMBA® AHB™ or Wishbone system bus interface. It includes up to 32 general purpose registers (GPRs), a tick-timer (TTimer), a programmable interrupt controller (PIC), an advanced power management unit (PMU), and an optional debug unit (DBGU). Additional microcontroller peripherals may be ordered for pre-integration and delivery with the core, individually or in a complete platform. IP Integration Services are also available to help integrate the processor with memory controllers, image compression, or other CAST IP cores.

The processor's BA2 instruction set is relatively simple and extremely compact. Programing is facilitated with the included C/C++ tool chain, Eclipse IDE, architectural simulator, and ported C libraries.

The BA22-CE synthesizes to 25k gates, can be clocked with 400MHz in a 65nm technology, and can provide as many as 2.53 DMIPS/MHz. The core is delivered, with a complete software development environment under Eclipse IDE, and its users get access to already ported real time operating systems (eCOS and uClinux).

The BA22 family of processors has been designed for easy reuse and integration, has been rigorously verified, and is production proven. 

BA22-CE reference designs have been evaluated in a variety of technologies.


Applications

      •   Mixed signal embedded processing
      •   Portable and wireless
      •   Internet, networking and telecom
      •   Automotive
      •   Home entertainment consumer electronics


Processor Description

The BA22 family uses a 32-bit processor architecture designed for high performance with great silicon and power efficiency.

The highly configurable design may include caches and memory management units, enhanced arithmetic processing capabilities such as a divider and floating point unit, a sophisticated power management unit, and an interactive, JTAG-based debug capability.

The BA22-CE is one pre-configured version of the BA22, targeted for a variety of deeply embedded applications.

BA22 processors are also designed for quick, efficient software development. The BA2 instruction set they use provides the highest code density in its class, without compromises on performance, ease of use, or scalability. It features:

      •   A linear, 32-bit or 64-bit logical address space
      •   An instruction length of 16, 24, 36, 48, or 64 bits, which reduces memory requirements by as much as 40%.
      •   Simple memory addressing modes
      •   Configurable general purpose registers (12 to 32 GPRs)
      •   Efficient memory transfer instructions

The BA22 has already proven itself in multiple production designs.


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 HDL, and includes everything required for successful implementation: 

      •   Verilog RTL source code
      •   Verilog Testbench
      •   Silicon-proven Reference SoC/ASIC Design
      •   Software development tools for Cygwin on Windows and Linux, with Eclipse IDE interface
      •   Operating systems and board support package