1.3.

Key Features and Benefits

The P8X32A design frees developers from common complexities of embedded systems programming.

1.3.1.

32-bit Multicore Architecture



True parallel processing with eight symmetric 32-bit processors (cogs) in one microcontroller



Multi-cog run-time management (run/wait/stop) easily solves event-handling problems and eliminates the need for interrupts. This greatly simplifies programming for asynchronous and synchronous events, resulting in a responsive and easily maintained application.



20 MIPS per cog, 160 MIPS total with all cogs running



Solves mixed-bandwidth needs common to embedded applications



Multi-purpose design lowers part count while increasing system capabilities



Developer-driven cog assignments bring flexible response and deterministic timing to embedded applications

1.3.2.

Clock System and Wait Instructions



Flexible Clock Modes

o

Two internal, one external, plus optional 1x–16x PLL; up to 80 MHz system clock

o

Switchable in code at run-time; low frequency for low-power periods, high frequency for high-bandwidth moments



Shared System Clock facilitates synchronization between cogs



WAIT Instructions

o

Deliver powerful synchronous / asynchronous event management

o

Set dedicated event cogs to an always ready, very low power state

1.3.3.

Programming Languages and Resources



Spin (object-based, high-level) and Assembly (PASM; low-level); used together for thorough development, i.e. fast development in Spin plus fast execution with prewritten high-speed PASM drivers



Third-party support: C, BASIC, and more



Enhanced Assembly Language

o

Conditional execution for individual instructions; enables jitter-free signal generation and event handling

o

Optional flag and result writing for individual instructions



Open-source Objects

o

Objects are shared freely via the Propeller Object Exchange and Propeller Tool libraries

o

Select objects that fit a need, easily integrate them into a Propeller application

1.3.4.

Flexible I/O and Peripheral Interface



32 I/O Pins

o

All general-purpose I/O after boot-up; accessible by every cog simultaneously

o

Single-instruction access to any individual I/O pin or any contiguous I/O pin group

o

Easily move designed functions between pins for simple system board layout



Multi-function Counters

o

Configurable state machines generate or sense repetitive signals per clock cycle

o

Measure frequency, detect edges, count cycles, D/A or A/D conversion, and more

o

Operate autonomously with optional run-time monitoring and adjusting

o

Two counters per cog



Video Generators

o

RGB: VGA; 8 I/O pins

o

Composite: NTSC, PAL; 1-pin (B/W), 3-pin (typical), or 4-pin (optional)

o

One generator per cog



Software Peripherals

o

Peripheral interfaces built with software and inexpensive passive components; not single-function on-chip hardware

o

Software-based interfaces are flexible; enhance as peripheral needs arise — no need to redesign with a chip variant

1.4.

Applications

The P8X32A is particularly useful in projects that can be vastly simplified with simultaneous processing, including:



Industrial control systems



Sensor integration, signal processing, and data acquisition



Handheld portable human-interface terminals



Motor and actuator control



User interfaces requiring NTSC, PAL, or VGA output, with PS/2 keyboard and mouse input



Low-cost video game systems



Industrial, educational or personal-use robotics



Wireless video transmission (NTSC or PAL)

1.4.1.

Corporate and Community Support



Sales or technical support: (916) 632-4664



Email sales: sales@parallaxsemiconductor.com



Email support: support@parallaxsemiconductor.com



Engineer-moderated Parallax Semiconductor sub-forum is available from http://forums.parallax.com



Parallax-hosted Propeller Object Exchange library: http://obex.parallax.com