CAST Releases 80186-Compatible Processor Core
Fast Version of Popular 16-bit Processor Aimed At Embedded Controller and Replacement Part Markets
PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 5, 2002--Semiconductor intellectual
property (IP) provider CAST, Inc. today announced the addition of the
C80186TX Microprocessor core to its line of general purpose IP (gpIP)
for electronic design. Fully software-compatible with the popular
Intel 80C186 but up to six times faster, the new core is an excellent
choice for many embedded controller applications, and it provides a
cost-effective alternative for replacing older parts that are no
longer manufactured.
"The `186 is one of the most popular 16-bit processors in the
entire world," said Bill Finch, vice president of sales for CAST.
"This fast-running version raises the high end of our gpIP product
line, and gives designers a great processor core with the low price,
easy licensing, and tremendous support CAST is known for."
The new C80186TX core is 100% software compatible with the x86
standard and is exchangeable with the similar parts from manufacturers
such as Intel and AMD. It uses single-clock memory access and an
architecture that optimizes execution time to perform operations up to
six times faster than a traditional `186 running at the same clock
frequency. CAST believes it to be one of the very fastest 80186
designs available.
The core has a broad set of integrated peripherals, which helps
reduce system development time and cost. These include four DMA
channels, multiple timers, a programmable interrupt controller, a
memory refresh unit, programmable DRAM controller, variable-rate
asynchronous serial ports, flexible chip select unit, and a
peripherals control block with advanced power management.
The 100% software compatibility of the C80186TX core means that
developers can confidently use it with the very broad set of
compilers, debugging aids, and general technical knowledge that has
grown around this popular processor. Developed by CAST partner and
microprocessor experts Evatronix S.A., the new core is available
immediately in HDL form for ASIC synthesis or optimized for selected
FPGAs. Pricing varies by region; customers should contact their local
distributor or CAST for details.
About CAST, Inc.
CAST provides a broad line of general-purpose IP cores, including
8- and 16-bit processors, peripherals, buses, network interfaces,
communications devices, multimedia operations, and encryption
functions.
Privately-owned, the company's IP revenue grew 50% in 2001 due to
its popular product line and lean operations model. Operating since
1993 with a focus on making IP practical and affordable for mainstream
designers, the company has established a reputation for high-quality
products, flexible licensing, and responsive technical support. The
company is located near New York City, and works with an international
network of IP developers and distributors.
CAST is a trademark of CAST, Inc. All other trademarks are the
property of their respective owners.
Contact:
CAST, Inc.
Hal Barbour, 201/391-8300
hal@cast-inc.com
info@cast-inc.com
www.cast-inc.com
or
PDL Comm.
Paul Lindemann, 603/490-4985
paul@pdlcomm.com
