Engineering the Complex Soc: Fast, Flexible Design with Configurable Processors

Engineering the Complex SOCThe first unified hardware/software guide to processor-centric SOC designProcessor-centric approaches enable SOC designers to complete far larger projects in far less time. Engineering the Complex SOCis a comprehensive, example-driven guide to creating designs with configurable, extensible processors. Drawing upon Tensilica's Xtensa architecture and TIE language, Dr. Chris Rowen systematically illuminates the issues, opportunities, and challenges of processor-centric design. Rowen introduces a radically new design methodology, then covers its essential techniques: processor configuration, extension, hardware/software co-generation, multiple processor partitioning/communication, and more. Coverage includes: Why extensible processors are necessary: shortcomings of current design methodsComparing extensible processors to traditional processors and hardwired logicExtensible processor architecture and mechanisms of processor extensibilityLatency, throughput, coordination of parallel functions, hardware interconnect options, management of design complexity, and other issuesMultiple-processor SOC architecture for embedded systemsTask design from the viewpoints of software andhardware developersAdvanced techniques: implementing complex state machines, task-to-task synchronization, power optimization, and moreToward a "sea of processors" Long-term trends in SOC design and semiconductor technology For all architects, hardware engineers, software designers, and SOC program managers involved with complex SOC design; and for all managers investing in SOC designs, platforms, processors, or expertise. PRENTICE HALLProfessional Technical ReferenceUpper Saddle River, NJ 07458www.phptr.com