RISC-V reference models certified for RISC-V P extension

The open standard RISC-V ISA (Instruction Set Architecture) has a modular structure based on multiple independent extensions that offer dedicated and enhanced functionality to optimise a processor for the target application.

The new SIMD/DSP extension, designated as ‘P’ in the specification description, supports efficient data processing applications and real-time requirements. The RISC-V International P Extension Task Group is in the final stages of submitting the specification to the official ratification process, which is expected to be completed within H2 2021.

The Imperas simulation technology enables fast and accurate virtual platforms that are central to modern SoC design and embedded software development. Working with lead customers, the Imperas models of the Andes cores have already been used for commercial projects, which are now implemented in silicon.

Optimising a multicore design is one of the most challenging design tasks. Multiple independent processing units interacting with each other plus shared peripherals together with real-time processing tasks supporting a mix of OS/RTOS running firmware and application software. SoC architecture exploration allows a full evaluation of software running before the final decision and configuration of the hardware options.

These virtual prototypes also support early software development, often many months before silicon prototypes are available. For final software testing, a virtual platform allows the actual binary code to be verified with access and visibility not available in real hardware or without compromising the software under test with additional test code.

“RISC-V is more than an ISA specification, it is a framework of flexibility; the real value is in the extensions and options available for processor core implementations,” said Dr Charlie Su, President and CTO at Andes Technology Corp. “The RISC-V P extension within the Andes cores addresses the key real-time requirements in SIMD/DSP computations for new markets in audio/speech, IoT, tinyML and edge devices. Together with the Andes certified Imperas reference models, SoC developers can explore the next generation domain-specific solutions.”

“Embedded development depends on the optimised balance between hardware resources and software applications,” added Simon Davidmann, CEO at Imperas Software. “With the Imperas golden reference models, developers can explore full software development for all the Andes cores, including the new RISC-V P extension and Andes ACE custom instructions.”