ARM has announced the ARM Cortex-M0 processor that enables microcontroller developers to achieve 32-bit performance at an eight-bit price point.
According to the company, the ultra low gate count of the processor also enables it to be deployed in analog and mixed signal devices as well as microcontroller applications, and promises substantial savings in system cost while retaining tool and binary compatibility with the Cortex-M3 processor.
The low-power operation of the Cortex-M0 processor is enhanced by the ARM Ultra High Density Standard Cell Library for the 180ULL process, the ARM power management kit (PMK), low power memory instances built for Cortex-M0, and the Keil microcontroller development kit.
The ARM low power libraries are optimized to enable low dynamic and static power consumption and minimize chip area. The PMK features dynamic and leakage power management functions and the low power memory instances support external power gating for leakage reduction, according to the company.
Mike Inglis, executive vice president and general manager of processor division at ARM, said: The Cortex-M0 processor is yet another demonstration of ARM’s low power leadership and its commitment to drive the industry forward towards higher performance with ever lower power consumption. With its expertise in low-power technology, ARM has worked closely with its partners and their customers to ensure that our processor architectures enable the cost and energy-efficient creation of tomorrow’s electronic devices and systems.
