The processor, which can perform both control and digital signal processing, has been customised by MegaChips for maximum throughput with three-way VLIW processing, floating point and four-way SIMD processing. The benchmark showed that the Xtensa processor offered over 90% lower power consumption when used for pedestrian dead reckoning algorithms, which require Kalman filters.
“We were able to take advantage of the Xtensa processor customisation capabilities in this design in a short amount of time, thanks to the Tensilica automated design tools,” said Kenji Nakamura, Deputy General Manager, AS Business Headquarters, MegaChips. “No other customisable processor allows designers to integrate a four-way SIMD and VLIW for maximum throughput with 32-bit RISC control processing, which is required for best power/performance in many IoT applications. These extra capabilities can give frizz a significant advantage in the market and allow frizz to achieve the right low-power profile for wearables.”