ARM Ltd. previewed its ARMv7 microprocessor architecture at the Embedded Systems Conference this week, providing some technical details and partner information. Processors in this new family will be available in three distinct profiles for different application spaces. This three-pronged approach, said ARM, “will enable systems designers to intelligently match the CPU to their chosen application target, optimizing performance, power consumption, code size, and silicon cost.”

ARM classifies its new processor families according to three “profiles,” as follows:

• The A profile of the ARMv7 processors is for sophisticated, virtual memory-based OS and user applications, such as consumer entertainment and wireless products running operating systems such as Linux, Windows CE, and Symbian OS.
• The R profile is for control applications running real-time operating systems, such as automotive, networking, and imaging applications.
• The M profile is optimized for extremely cost-sensitive embedded applications such as microcontrollers, automotive body systems, and white goods.

ARMv7 builds on the success of the ARMv6 architecture, including its Thumb code compression technology and NEON technology extensions to increase DSP and media processing throughput, according to the company. The ARMv7 architecture also features “improved execution environment support to match the increasing use of JIT and DAC technology,” ARM said.

ARM says is working with key members of the ARM Connected Community, including Linux supplier MontaVista, to ensure broad support for the ARMv7 architecture. “Our industry-leading partners requested that we take application-specific market needs into account in the ARMv7 architecture,” said ARM CTO Mike Muller, “and that is exactly what we have done.”

A number of ARM Cortex microprocessors will become available during Q4 2005 and Q1 2006. A set of specifications describing all aspects of the ARMv7 architecture is available now to ARM customers under NDA.

 
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