Processors

The selection of a suitable processor for a system can be complex. Many factors need to be considered, such as:

• Compute Performance.
• Power consumption.
• On chip interfaces.
• Firmware/hardware tradeoffs.
• On chip memory.
• Programming OTP, mask, flash.
• Cost.
• Upgrade paths.
• Existing software investments.
• Longevity/obsolescence
• Development environment - temperature range.

The diversity of projects that we have undertaken has allowed us to develop a range of solutions dependent upon the complexity (or simplicity) of the system. In cases where unit volumes are modest, a 'packaged' solution (where basic processor architecture, compilers and development environment have been used before) can be the most cost effective. However, where volumes and cost sensitivity are high then a carefully tailored processor choice may be appropriate.

Some of the key families and manufacturers that we work with are:

• ARM - (ARM, Atmel, Cirrus)
• SH1, SH2 - Renesas (Hitachi)
• AVR, MegaAVR - Atmel
• ST7 - ST
• MC52xx (Coldfire) - Freescale
• HC05 - Freescale
• H8(S) - Renesas (Hitachi)
• 8051 - NXP
• PIC 16F - Microchip