Processor delivers 2x the compute & DSP capability for IoT

26th September 2014

ARM Ltd

Siobhan O'Gorman

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Claimed to deliver double the compute and DSP capability of ARM-based MCUs, the Cortex-M7 processor has been released by ARM. The 32-bit processor is suitable for high-end embedded applications used in next generation vehicles, connected devices and smart homes and factories.

Achieving a 5 CoreMark/MHz, the processor delivers a combination of high performance and DSP functionality. This allows MCU silicon manufacturers to target highly demanding embedded applications while keeping development costs low. The processor is suitable for smart control systems utilised in a number of IoT applications including motor control, industrial automation, advanced audio, image processing and connected vehicle applications.

Faster processing of audio, image data and voice recognition is enabled by the Cortex-M7 processor. The same C-friendly programmer's model is provided by the processor, which is binary compatible with existing Cortex-M processors. Simple migration from any existing Cortex-M core to the new Cortex-M7 is enabled by the processor's ecosystem and software compatibility, allowing system designers to reuse code and reduce development and maintenance costs.

Atmel, Freescale and ST Microelectronics are early licensees of the Cortex-M7 processor.

“The addition of the Cortex-M7 processor to the Cortex-M series allows ARM and its partners to offer the most scalable and software-compatible solutions possible for the connected world,” said Noel Hurley, General Manager, CPU group, ARM. “The versatility and new memory features of the Cortex-M7 enable more powerful, smarter and reliable microcontrollers that can be used across a multitude of embedded applications.”

“The Cortex-M7 is well positioned between Atmel’s Cortex-M based MCUs and Cortex-A based MPUs enabling Atmel to offer an even greater range of processing solutions,” said Reza Kazerounian, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Microcontroller Business Unit, Atmel. “Customers using the Cortex-M-based MCU will be able to scale up performance and system functionality, while keeping the Cortex-M class ease- of-use and maximising software reuse. We see the ARM Cortex-M7 addressing high-growth markets like IoT and wearables, as well as automotive and industrial applications that can leverage its performance and power efficiency.”