Altera offers MIPS softcore processor for SoCs

Altera, MIPS Technologies and System Level Solutions have worked together to create a MIPS-based softcore processor for use on Altera’s FPGA and HardCopy Asic devices.

Designated the MP32, the FPGA-based soft processor is supported by Wind River’s VxWorks RTOS and the MIPS Navigator ICS software development suite.

It is anticipated that the processor will be used in the development of SoCs for networking, video and digital signal processing applications

The MP32 processor is royalty free and sold on an unlimited use basis when targeting Altera’s FPGA devices. 

“Designers of MIPS-Based systems can use familiar tools and software while choosing the right platform—be it FPGAs, HardCopy Asic or standard cell Asics—to meet their price, performance and volume needs,” said Art Swift, v-p of marketing and business development, MIPS Technologies.

The MP32 processor is distributed and supported through Altera Embedded Alliance partner SLS, which has a portfolio of IP, systems knowledge and FPGA design experience.
 
“Our clients run the gamut from seasoned FPGA designers to embedded developers who are new to programmable logic, and we match their comfort level with the breadth of products and services we offer, all to meet their time to market goals,” said Paresh Patel, CEO SLS.

The MP32 processor is designed to be used with Altera's Qsys system integration tool. 

"We are pleased to give embedded designers the ability to leverage MIPS' rich software and tools ecosystem in a programmable logic device," said  Vince Hu, v-p of product and corporate marketing at Altera.

A video highlighting the design flow for the MP32 processor with Qsys system integration platform is available for viewing at www.altera.com/mp32video 
 
The MP32 processor is currently available from SLS, who sells and supports the MP32 processor core. The MIPS Navigator ICS software development suite and a VxWorks BSP for the MP32 processor are available from MIPS and Wind River respectively.