Tensilica announced what it claims represents the first integrated design environment (IDE) for system-on-chip (SOC) development that integrates software development, processor optimization, and multiple-processor SOC architecture tools into one common design environment. Tensilica's “Xplorer” IDE is a visual environment based in part on the open-source href=”/links/LK5970222548.html” target=”new”>Eclipse platform for tool integration, the company said. The IDE supports development of SOCs based on Tensilica's “configurable and extensible” microprocessor core, called Xtensa.

“Until now, IDEs have been used only for software development,” commented Tensilica senior VP of sales and marketing Bernie Rosenthal. “By extending the concept to hardware design, our customers get one integrated platform to efficiently design both the hardware and software together, make trade-offs with different processor configurations, and track projects.”

Tensilica said the standard version of its IDE includes C/C++ code development tools, software project management, build management, profiling, and debugging. “Advanced versions” are also offered, as is support for MontaVista Linux.

 
This article was originally published on LinuxDevices.com and has been donated to the open source community by QuinStreet Inc. Please visit LinuxToday.com for up-to-date news and articles about Linux and open source.