IP Coprocessor Family Launched

Combining content-addressable memory (CAM) technology with specialized logic and a high-speed control interface, the first member of a new family of IP coprocessors was customized for use in Cisco Systems' Catalyst family of switching systems. The device runs at speeds up to 166 MHz and provides 83 million look-ups/s. IP coprocessors are used in applications requiring high-speed data searching, such as routers, higher-layer switching, and applications involved in the convergence of voice, data and video. This new IP coprocessor performs a hardware-assisted parallel search, enabling what is said to be faster route speeds and the ability to provide improved QoS. And it can perform the task in each clock cycle. A family of standard products will be available next year.