64bit multicore test chip powers premium smartphones

Article By : ARM

ARM unveiled its processor test chip includes IP, EDA tools, design flow and methodology to enable new customer tape-outs on TSMC's most advanced FinFET process.

ARM has unleashed what it describes as a multicore, 64bit ARMv8-A processor test chip based on TSMC's 10FinFET process technology. According to the company, simulation benchmarks demonstrate impressive power and efficiency gains relative to TSMC's 16FinFET+ process technology that is presently used to implement chips powering many of today's premium smartphones.

The fully validated complete design enablement solution includes IP, EDA tools, design flow and methodology to enable new customer tape-outs on TSMC's most advanced FinFET process, the company indicated. In addition, SoC designers can now use the foundation IP building blocks (standard cell libraries, embedded memories and standard I/Os) to develop the most competitive SoCs for the highest possible performance with lowest power and area, added ARM.

The latest test chip is the result of ARM and TSMC's long-standing commitment to advanced process technologies, building on the initial 10FinFET partnership announced in October 2014. Mutual ARM and TSMC silicon partners have also benefitted from early access to ARM Artisan physical IP and 16nm FinFET+ tape-outs of the ARM Cortex-A72 processor.