ARM9-Based MCU Seeks System Control And Connectivity Apps

Based on the ARM920T 200+ MIPS, 32-bit RISC processor with 2 x 16-KB cache, the AT91RM9200 microcontroller is said to offer a flexible configuration of on- and off-chip memories, together with an extensive set of peripherals for control, communications and data storage purposes, such as in telematic systems connecting GPS receivers and GPRS communications, POS terminals, and industrial automation systems. Among the MCU's key features are USB Host and Device, 10/100 BaseT Ethernet MAC, interfaces for a variety of flash cards, and what is called a sophisticated power management controller that provides a range of clock speeds and enables individual peripherals to be powered down when not in use. Other features include 16 KB of SRAM and 128 KB of ROM, four USARTs supporting IrDA, ISO7816 (T=0/T=1) and RS-485, and two oscillators and PLLs. The core supply ranges from 1.65V to 1.95V, with 1.65V to 3.6V optional for I/O. The AT91RM9200 in PQFP208 and BGA256 packages cost $12 each/50,000. Samples are available, as is a development board. For more information, contact Jacko Wilbrink at ATMEL CORP., San Jose, CA. (408) 441-0311.