New processors for high-performance embedded applications

Texas Instruments now offers the Sitara AM574x processors. These Arm Cortex-based devices produce high levels of processing and are created to satisfy the intense processing demands of modern embedded applications, including industrial communications, HMI, and automation and control.

The processors comprise dual-core Arm Cortex-A15 RISC CPUs with Arm Neon extensions and two of the company's C66x floating-point DSP cores. The processors incorporate dual PRU-ICSS that can be employed for industrial Ethernet protocols such as EtherCAT, Profinet, and Ethernet/IP. The devices also join programmable video processing with a highly integrated peripheral set, provide up to two EVEs, and include cryptographic acceleration.

The processors are supported by the TMDSIDK574 IDK, a standalone test, development, and evaluation module that facilitates developers to write software and develop hardware for industrial communications and industrial control applications. The IDK breaks out six Ethernet ports, four of which can be utilised concurrently: two Gigabit Ethernet ports and two 10/100 Ethernet ports from the PRU-ICSS subsystems.

The IDK also incorporates connectors for Mini PCIe, USB 3.0, and HDMI and support for an optional TMDXIDK57X-LCD touchscreen display. The kit provides a defined set of features to enable developers to experience industrial communication solutions utilising various serial or Ethernet-based interfaces. Using standard interfaces, the IDK may interface to other processors or systems and act as a communication gateway or controller. Also, it can directly serve as a standard remote I/O system or a sensor connected to an industrial communication network.