Processor PPA and instruction memory

Abstract CPU on a chip with red connections to illustrate Codasip blog post on processor instruction memory

The area of any part of a design contributes both to the silicon cost and to the power consumption, but a simplistic following of the “A” in a processor IP vendor’s PPA numbers can be misleading. What do you need to know?

What is needed to support an operating system?

Abstract blue background with hexagonal shapes to illustrate Codasip blog post on embedded OS support

For each embedded product, software developers need to consider whether they need an operating system; and if so, what type of an OS. Operating systems vary considerably and the choice of one for your processor core has important implications. Let us explore them.

What is processor core complexity?

Abstract CPU on a chip to illustrate Codasip blog post on processor complexity

Looking at any processor IP, you will find that their vendors emphasise PPA (performance, power & area) numbers. In theory, they should provide a level playing field for comparing different processor IP cores, but in reality, the situation is more complex. Let us consider performance.

Understanding the Performance of Processor IP Cores

Abstract circuit board design to illustrate Codasip blog post on processor performance

Looking at any processor IP, you will find that their vendors emphasise PPA (performance, power & area) numbers. In theory, they should provide a level playing field for comparing different processor IP cores, but in reality, the situation is more complex. Let us consider performance.

More than Moore with Domain-Specific Processors

Codasip homepage custom compute

The Moore’s law has had remarkably long validity of almost half a century. Today, however, it is ceasing to apply, opening new pressing questions such as: How to make up for the fact that chip size cannot be effectively reduced any more? What is the new way to improve performance? Roddy’s blogpost digs into one of the most promising answers: Core customization. Read on!