taskit MicroARM
Overview
Features at a glance
- Industry standard ARM architecture
- Smallest design
- Java VM, uClinux possible
- Housing and connecter corresponds to CompactFlash II
- Closed housing - ESD-protection
- Low power consumption
- Easy expandability
- MicroARM: CPU module in housing with AT91R40008 CPU core
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ARM architecture
The modern ARM architecture represents the most important manufacturer-independent processor architecture to date. The software support (from tools to operating systems) is correspondingly strong, including both Java and Embedded Linux. The ARM implementation in MicroARM's AT91R40008 processor also offers the lowest energy consumption in this processor family - with full 32-bit operation.
Connection to a PC
The MicroARM connects to a host PC by means of a terminal program. The Java shell enables you to start Java programs, and to copy data between the host PC and the MicroARM's flash file system.
Easy to program
Java offers a free, hardware-independent programming environment. Access to the hardware interfaces is already implemented as part of the Java VM; the corresponding interface file just needs to be linked to the application program.
Connection of peripherals
The MicroARM makes it particularly straight-forward to design and connect peripherals without special, in-depth knowledge. These easy-to-use interfaces include the PIF bus, TWI (I²C compatible), serial interfaces and digital ports. A wide variety of standard controllers for LCDs, networking or CompactFlash can be operated directly on the PIF bus. Implementation examples for digital I/O, AD/DA converters, LCDs, matrix keyboards and Ethernet are included in the starter kit.
Effective power management
- MicroARM sketch• Enlarge
Even at the maximum clock speed of 59 MHz, the MicroARM consumes less than 50 mA at 3.3 V. When using a single Mignon cell (e.g. NiMH battery) as a power source, this already constitutes a battery life of over 20 hours. By slowing or pausing the processor core or peripherals, the energy consumption can be drastically reduced even further. As soon as an interrupt occurs, the MicroARM resumes its active state immediately. Since, in practice, most applications spend the most time waiting for external results, this technique can minimize power consumption to a fraction of the nominal value without sacrificing computing power or significantly changing the response time.
