Soft Processors Raise Performance Levels

Not a newcomer to the market, the MicroBlaze 32-bit soft processor extends its performance to 100 Dhrystone MIPS while running at 150 MHz when used in conjunction with a Virtex-II Pro FPGA. Occupying 900 logic cells, the processor core is reported as the industry’s fastest and smallest 32-bit soft processor to date. Making its industry debut, the PicoBlaze eight-bit soft processor runs at 116 MHz and occupies a footprint of 154 logic cells. Its core is embedded, including program memory, and can be connected to functions and peripherals tuned to a specific design. PicoBlaze and the Micro-Blaze development kit version 2.2 are available for download from the company’s website. XILINX INC., San Jose, CA. (408) 879-7727.