32-bit processor pushes deeper into 8-bit territory

NXP Semiconductors’ 50-MHz ARM Cortex-M0-based LPC1100 microcontroller family represents the latest 32-bit challenge to 8- and 16-bit processors. The parts are available now with prices starting at 65 to 95 cents (10,000). They have on-chip flash covering 8, 16, 24, and 32 kbytes in a 33-pin package; 48-pin LPQFP and PLCC44 packages are also available. The company claims that the EEMBC (Embedded Microprocessor Benchmark Consortium) CoreMark Benchmark measures 40 to 50% better code density for the LPC1100 than that of 8- and 16-bit microcontrollers. The 32-bit device’s improved code density may signal another round of refinement of the 8-bit-processing sweet spot; however, it may also reflect a 16- or 32-bit bias in the benchmark code. Efforts are in progress to further evaluate why the CoreMark code density is better on the 32-bit architecture.

The LPC1100 supports 32 vectored interrupts with four priority levels, and it includes one UART (universal-asynchronous-receiver/transmitter) interface; as many as two SPIs (serial-peripheral interfaces); FM+ (fast-mode plus) I2C (inter-integrated-circuit) support; and two 16- and 32-bit timers with PWM (pulse-width modulation), match, and capture. The eight-channel, 10-bit ADC is accurate to ±1 LSB (least-significant bit) DNL (differential nonlinearity). The device supports power-on-reset, multilevel brownout detection, and a 10- to 50-MHz PLL (phase-locked loop). The 12-MHz internal RC oscillator maintains 1% accuracy over the temperature and voltage range. The GPIO (general-purpose-input/output) pins are 5V-tolerant, and some pins support as much as 20-mA drive. Software-development tools are available for the LPC1100 from IAR Systems, Keil, Hitex, and Code Red Technologies. NXP will also offer a development-tool platform for less than $30.

NXP Semiconductors

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The LPC1100 microcontroller family represents the latest 32-bit challenge to 8- and 16-bit processors.