Multicore processor tailored for netbooks

Fabless firm ChipWrights Inc., which develops DSP-based devices called visual signal processors (ViSPs), has released the multicore CW5631 SoC for netbook developers struggling to implement successful web video and Linux support without driving costs sky-high.

The multicore CW5631 an ARM processor-based SoC that offers video performance at cost-effective price and power points; it also combines a CWv16 ViSP (SIMD processor with sixteen 32bit parallel processor datapaths) and a RISC serial application processor.

The part performs MPEG4 decode at 720p30 and H.264 decode at 480p30, which is "perfect" for netbooks that play video, says Cary Robins, president of ChipWrights, which is a subsidiary of the AD Group.

The embedded ARM processor runs the Linux kernel and libraries layered on top of that. The company says a fully-featured EclipseIDE for both the ARM and ViSP processors allows easy code development and debugging.

In addition, reference code is provided for a fully operational Linux Media Player solution, based on 2.6.29 Kernel, with a number of IPTV example applications, including IP VOD players, with full support for Wi-Fi and other peripherals over either SDIO or USB.

The package also includes a QT framework as well for easy porting of existing mobile and portable solutions.

"The highly-efficient ARM and ViSP combined core provides opportunities for high quality video performance, as well as unbeatable power consumption - delivering full D1 video for around 1W," said Robins.

- John Walko
EE Times