IntellaSys tips embedded multicore processor

SAN JOSE, Calif. — IntellaSys Corp. has unveiled a multicore processor solution for use in next-generation embedded applications.

IntellaSys’ so-called SEAforth product family is based on the company’s new Scalable Embedded Array (SEA) Platform. The first product, dubbed the SEAforth-24, packs 24 core processors — each of which can operate at one billon instructions per second, according to IntellaSys (Cupertino, Calif.), which is a TPL Group Enterprise.

The SEAforth-24 chip dissipates only 150mW in a typical application, said Chet Brown, president and CEO of IntellaSys. “Thanks to the algorithmic-configurable architecture embodied in our SEA Platform, our initial SEAforth family promises to enable a host of embedded wireless and portable applications,” he said in a statement.

The company is currently in discussions with OEMs to become beta-site customers for its SEAforth-24 solution for handling distributed digital media processing in home theater environments.

Combining a 6 x 4 array of 18-bit processors with a set of I/O functions, the SEAforth-24 chip deploys a dual-stack architecture that is both asynchronous and scalable. Capable of driving an antenna directly, the SEAforth-24 wireless solution eliminates the need for any external data converters, according to the company.With 24 cores operating independently on chip, designers can dedicate groups of them to handle specific tasks. The solution also consists of other components on the same device: RAM and ROM, a flash memory interface, a static/dynamic RAM interface, real-time clock, an 18-bit A/D and 9-bit D/A, eleven serial (SPI) ports, 32 parallel I/O lines, and scalable connectivity among multiple SEAforth-24 chips via high-speed I/O ports.

It also includes the so-called VentureForth programming language, which is the native machine code for the SEA Platform chips. Assembled and tested in a 240-pin ball grid array (BGA) package, the first SEAforth-24 chip solution will begin shipping in Q4 of this year. Priced at $19.95 each in 1000-unit quantities, discounts will be offered on higher unit-volume orders.

To expedite product development, an evaluation board featuring four of the SEAforth-24 chips plus a variety of compatible peripherals is being offered.