Developing software for digital signal processors

This typically involves designing algorithm code in a specialised tool, adapting it for a specific application, and then implementing it onto the DSP. However, with the increasing demand for more sophisticated features and improved user experiences, this process has become progressively time-consuming. To address these challenges and reduce time to market, Cadence has introduced a new DSP code-generation toolbox, designed for rapid deployment of MATLAB and Simulink models onto Cadence Tensilica HiFi DSPs.

Revolutionising audio algorithm development 

This innovative toolbox promises to transform how engineers and developers design and implement audio algorithms. Supporting optimised code generation for the HiFi 4, HiFi 5, and HiFi 5s DSPs, the release allows developers to create high-performance implementations using MATLAB and Simulink. The toolbox enhances efficiency and precision, simplifying the process of developing top-quality audio applications.

Prakash Madhvapathy, Product Marketing Director at Cadence’s Compute Solutions Group, explained: "The new MATLAB and Simulink code-generation toolbox for HiFi DSPs offers a streamlined, efficient method for algorithm development, allowing our customers to deliver the superior sound quality demanded by today's consumers. By directly integrating with MATLAB and Simulink, the toolbox enables rapid prototyping and testing, reducing time to market for innovative audio products."

Collaborating with MathWorks

Cadence has worked closely with MathWorks, the creators of MATLAB and Simulink, to ensure seamless integration of this toolbox. Many of Cadence’s clients already use MATLAB and Simulink to begin their development processes, and this collaboration is expected to accelerate the adoption of Tensilica HiFi DSPs. The toolkit is anticipated to save significant development time, as noted by clients engaged with Cadence throughout the development phase.

Jim Tung, MathWorks Fellow, said: "Engineers and scientists worldwide rely on MathWorks software to drive innovation across various industries. With Cadence's new toolbox, MATLAB and Simulink users can more easily develop, simulate, and implement algorithms for efficient processing on Tensilica DSP hardware. This partnership will enhance audio algorithm development for Tensilica DSPs, enabling faster, optimised workflows."

Streamlining workflow with integrated tools

The HiFi DSP hardware support package, downloadable from MathWorks, integrates seamlessly with the Cadence SDK toolchain. This integration allows users to generate, optimise, build, and verify C code derived from MATLAB scripts and Simulink blocks, running these on Cadence Tensilica HiFi processors. The toolbox also optimises code for HiFi DSPs, covering operators, standard maths functions, custom functions, and various DSP System Toolbox and Simulink blocks.

Faster time to market

Cadence’s new DSP code-generation toolbox represents a significant advancement in audio algorithm development, simplifying the traditionally complex processes of algorithm creation and deployment. Through collaboration with MathWorks, Cadence is fostering innovation in the audio industry, ensuring developers can deliver superior sound quality with greater efficiency. As Tensilica HiFi DSPs see broader adoption, this toolbox will be an invaluable asset for developers aiming to bring high-quality audio products to market more quickly.