Synthesis Toolset Eyes Embedded µP Apps September 2003 Issue Published Date: September 18, 2003
Debuting as the market's first true co-processor synthesis toolset for embedded microprocessor applications, the Cascade Tool Suite analyzes application software on the main microprocessor under user control and automatically synthesizes a hardware co-processor. Software is then offloaded from the main embedded processor and onto the hardware co-processor. The suite operates on the output of the standard embedded software tool chain to preserve existing investments. It automatically generates a cycle-accurate C model of the co-processor and provides automatic verification of the co-processor hardware and micro-code against the software running on the main processor. Other features include a pushbutton process to generate co-processor RTL and the ability to implement minor software updates on an existing hardware co-processor, allowing reuse of the silicon in a range of similar end products. Available in the fourth quarter, pricing for an annual subscription fee ranges from $35,000 to $200,000. For more information, contact David Stewart at CRITICALBLUE, Edinburgh, Scotland. +44 141 337 6366.
