Texas Instruments has introduced a series of four microprocessors in its ARM9-based Sitara range.
The AM1808, AM1806, AM1707, and AM1705 microprocessors integrate interfaces such as a serial ATA (SATA), universal parallel port (uPP) and TI’s own Programmable Real-time Unit (PRU).
The PRU provides configurable I/O control enabling developers to extend peripheral capabilities and add custom interfaces to designs.
Another feature is that the PRU offloads the ARM9 to improve application processing capacity.
This can reduce overall power consumption, eliminate latency and improve real-time responsiveness, said the supplier.
The hardware and software scalability of the AM1x devices are coupled with a suite of software, demos and development tools to reduce customers’ time to market.
Two processor options are 375 and 450MHz ARM9.
There is also the capability to implement and tune standard, custom and “lite” versions of common and proprietary serial interfaces, such as UART and CAN.
There is also the TMDXEXP1808L experimenter kit for $445, the TMDXEVM1808L EVM for $1150 and TMDXEM1707 EVM for $845.
The software development kit includes a Linux kernel 2.6.33 board support package, PRU configuration tool as well as PRU CAN, PRU UART and touch screen demos. Windows Embedded CE and additional operating system support will be available later in the year.