XIP memory boosts power performance of ST microcontrollers
Adesto Technologies has used its octal xSPI flash memory for execute in place (XIP) designs alongside STMicroelectronics’ latest microcontrollers.
The Adesto EcoXiP gives the STM32H7A3/7B3 and STM32H7B0 microcontrollers higher preformance and power efficiency in graphical interfaces, human machine interfaces (HMIs) and natural language interfaces in next-generation smart devices. The MCUs implement a combination of on-chip flash and two octal SPI ports, which support NOR flash memory.
XiP operation, where code is executed directly from an external flash device, enables designers to support growing amounts of functionality by easily scaling their system with additional program space. EcoXiP offers system performance comparable to executing code directly out of internal on-chip NVM. With EcoXiP as the external flash memory, designers can expand the design with simplified firmware.
Using the octal memory for XIP gives 70 percent higher performance and 50 percent better power efficiency over quad XIP memory devices. “Many designers choose a quad SPI memory for their XiP system, but depending on their application, they may have trouble meeting performance requirements with a quad device,” said Gideon Intrater, CTO of Adesto, which is being acquired by Dialog Semiconductor. “When using one of ST’s innovative new MCUs, designers should consider XiP operation with an octal SPI device. EcoXiP can provide significant performance advantages for many applications, and it also improves the system power efficiency. We’re delighted that ST implemented full support for EcoXiP’s wrap and continue command, which contributes to its exceptional performance.”
“Our STM32H7A3, STM32H7B3, and STM32H7B0 MCUs are ideal for engineers who want the features of the STM32H7 series with lower power consumption and greater integration,” said Daniel Colonna, marketing director, Microcontroller Division, STMicroelectronics. “For design teams providing richer graphics, we included a dual octo-SPI interface on the new MCUs that assures high throughput and using memory-mapped mode, treats external flash like an internal memory during read operations. By using an octal SPI device like Adesto’s EcoXiP with our new MCUs, designers can create high-performance, low-power systems for more energy-efficient, lower-cost products.”
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