1.3.
Key Features and Benefits
The P8X32A design frees developers from common complexities of embedded systems programming.
1.3.1.
32-bit Multicore Architecture

True parallel processing with eight symmetric 32-bit processors (cogs) in one microcontroller

Multi-cog run-time management (run/wait/stop) easily solves event-handling problems and eliminates the need for interrupts. This greatly simplifies programming for asynchronous and synchronous events, resulting in a responsive and easily maintained application.

20 MIPS per cog, 160 MIPS total with all cogs running

Solves mixed-bandwidth needs common to embedded applications

Multi-purpose design lowers part count while increasing system capabilities

Developer-driven cog assignments bring flexible response and deterministic timing to embedded applications
1.3.2.
Clock System and Wait Instructions

Flexible Clock Modes
o
Two internal, one external, plus optional 1x–16x PLL; up to 80 MHz system clock
o
Switchable in code at run-time; low frequency for low-power periods, high frequency for high-bandwidth moments

Shared System Clock facilitates synchronization between cogs

WAIT Instructions
o
Deliver powerful synchronous / asynchronous event management
o
Set dedicated event cogs to an "always ready," very low power state
1.3.3.
Programming Languages and Resources

Spin (object-based, high-level) and Assembly (PASM; low-level); used together for thorough development, i.e. fast development in Spin plus fast execution with prewritten high-speed PASM drivers

Third-party support: C, BASIC, and more

Enhanced Assembly Language
o
Conditional execution for individual instructions; enables jitter-free signal generation and event handling
o
Optional flag and result writing for individual instructions

Open-source Objects
o
Objects are shared freely via the Propeller Object Exchange and Propeller Tool libraries
o
Select objects that fit a need, easily integrate them into a Propeller application
1.3.4.
Flexible I/O and Peripheral Interface

32 I/O Pins
o
All general-purpose I/O after boot-up; accessible by every cog simultaneously
o
Single-instruction access to any individual I/O pin or any contiguous I/O pin group
o
Easily move designed functions between pins for simple system board layout

Multi-function Counters
o
Configurable state machines generate or sense repetitive signals per clock cycle
o
Measure frequency, detect edges, count cycles, D/A or A/D conversion, and more
o
Operate autonomously with optional run-time monitoring and adjusting
o
Two counters per cog

Video Generators
o
RGB: VGA; 8 I/O pins
o
Composite: NTSC, PAL; 1-pin (B/W), 3-pin (typical), or 4-pin (optional)
o
One generator per cog

Software Peripherals
o
Peripheral interfaces built with software and inexpensive passive components; not single-function on-chip hardware
o
Software-based interfaces are flexible; enhance as peripheral needs arise — no need to redesign with a chip variant
1.4.
Applications
The P8X32A is particularly useful in projects that can be vastly simplified with simultaneous processing, including:

Industrial control systems

Sensor integration, signal processing, and data acquisition

Handheld portable human-interface terminals

Motor and actuator control

User interfaces requiring NTSC, PAL, or VGA output, with PS/2 keyboard and mouse input

Low-cost video game systems

Industrial, educational or personal-use robotics

Wireless video transmission (NTSC or PAL)
1.4.1.
Corporate and Community Support

Sales or technical support: (916) 632-4664

Email sales: sales@parallaxsemiconductor.com

Email support: support@parallaxsemiconductor.com

Engineer-moderated Parallax Semiconductor sub-forum is available from http://forums.parallax.com

Parallax-hosted Propeller Object Exchange library: http://obex.parallax.com