◆ Approach to the TRON Project

Renesas Technology is actively working on the TRON Project.
We arrange real-time OS environment including ITRON and other μT-Kernel and MP T-Kernel for a wide range of system, and support wide variety of microcomputers.

◆ SuperH multi-core microcomputer

The next generation of digital consumer electronics products will require microcomputers to achieve even higher processing performance while maintaining low power consumption.
To go beyond the performance limits of single-core processors, which perform all processing using a single CPU core, Renesas is developing multi-core chips that incorporate a number of CPU cores.
Development of multi-core versions is ongoing for both the SH-2A and SH-4A 32-bit superscalar CPU cores. The SH-2A core is optimized for use in "general-purpose microcontrollers" for industrial, automotive, consumer, and similar applications. The SH-4A core is optimized for use in "embedded processors" for specific applications such as industrial equipment, communications networks, mobile phones, car navigation systems, and digital AV products.

◆ Real-time Operating System for SH2A-DUAL『HI7200/MP』

In Renesas, the development environment for the multi core is maintained. Real-time Operating System 'HI7200/MP' for the SH2A-DUAL was promptly prepared. Each core operates on a kernel compliant with μITRON4.0 specification, the embedded OS with the best track record in Japan. Applications are installed separately by functionality under the respective kernels.
The HI7200/MP supports the features listed below to facilitate communication between applications across the core boundaries.

1. Remote service call feature

Permits service calls for the kernel in another core to be made in the conventional format.

2. RPC (Remote Procedure Call) feature

Enables another core to execute functions.

◆MP T-Kernel for multi core microcomputer “SH7786 group”

MP T-Kernel for SH-4A multi-core microcomputer "SH7786 group" is prepared.
For its two CPU cores the SH7786 Group uses the well-established SH-4A, the most powerful CPU core available in the SuperH family of 32-bit RISC microcomputers, and newly adopted a core architecture that supports a dual-core configuration. The SH7786 Group supports both symmetric multiprocessing (SMP) and asymmetric multiprocessing (AMP), allowing both CPU cores to handle a single processing task using parallel processing for improved efficiency. This results in a maximum processing performance of 1920 MIPS (when operating at 533 MHz). The SH7786 Group can handle the high-speed processing of complex data necessary to meet the requirements of next-generation car navigation systems with functions such as graphical display capabilities, high-quality audio reproduction, and image recognition, while also reducing power consumption.
The SH7786 Group employs technologies developed by Renesas Technology that support the building of a distributed function system.
This enables developers to make use of existing software resources designed for single operating systems and makes it possible to build a multi-core distributed function system in a short amount of time.

◆ Identifying the optimum multi-core technologies for embedded applications

Renesas, as a technology leader, isn't simply aiming to improve processing performance. Our strategy is more comprehensive. We plan to offer multi-core solutions that not only are suitable for embedded applications, but also provide features like small-size, low power consumption, and development environments that are essential for practical use.

◆ Content of TRONSHOW2009 exhibition

- HI7200/MP
- MP T-Kernel
- Real-Time OS Aware Debugging

In addition, there will be many more demonstrations. You have got to visit the Renesas booth!