TI offers ARM Cortex-A8 processor for $5
updated 06:15 pm EDT, Mon October 31, 2011
Chip paired with $89 developer platform
Texas Instruments has expanded its processor lineup to include a new ARM Cortex-A8 chip that can be purchased for as little as $5. The company claims to be the first to offer an A8 processor at such prices, compared to alternatives that cost more than $15 per chip. The Sitara AM335x SoC design is said to be geared for embedded devices such as navigation, handheld gaming, or home automation systems.
The processors are available in several different configurations, with clock speeds ranging from 550MHz to 720MHz. The chips integrate a touchscreen controller and 3D graphics accelerator, while consuming 7mW of power at idle. Multi-platform support enables developers to utilize Android, Linux or Windows Embedded Compact 7.
The Sitara AM335x chips are now available on a sample basis, with production scheduled to begin in 2012.
