Low-Power DSPs Offer SATA And Universal Parallel Port Connectivity

A set of four low-power digital signal processors (TMS320C6742, TMS320C6746, TMS320C6748 and OMAP-L138) from TI offer connectivity options and fixed- and floating-point capabilities. Packed with application-tuned features and peripherals, these devices help reduce overall system cost industrial, communications, medical diagnostics, and audio applications. For example, power protection systems benefit from the OMAP-L138 device’s fixed/floating-point DSP, ARM9, Ethernet MAC (EMAC), and LCD controller for up to $14 cost reduction compared to current solutions. For applications that need high-speed data transfer and high-capacity storage, such as test and measurement, public safety radios, music effects, and intelligent occupancy sensors, the processors feature a universal parallel port (uPP) and integrated Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA). With performance levels up to 300 MHz, these products can manage on-chip power through dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) and multiple power down modes. The four processors are pin-for-pin compatible and code compatible with all TMS320C6000 devices. An OMAP-L138-based, low-cost ($149) experimenter board and a full OMAP-L138 evaluation module (EVM) support product development. All processors are available for sampling. The TMX320C6742 costs $6.70, the TMX320C6746 costs $13.50, the TMX320C6748 costs $15.20, and the OMAP-L138 costs $18.60 in 1000-unit quantities. TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC., Dallas, TX. (888) 772-3544.