DSP, Micros & Memory


The 8-bit survival syndrome – part 1

28 March 2024 DSP, Micros & Memory

As recently as the 1970s, a 4-bit word MCU, for example the Intel 4004, would have handled critical tasks. The 4-bit microcontroller had staying power and found its way into many battery-powered devices. As recently as 2010, specific iterations were still in production, for example, Epson’s S1C060 and S1C63 families.

Modern 4-bit devices are a modern interpretation of an original device that has enhanced architecture, performance, and overall capabilities. The reason for this fortitude is that they are not the same devices that Grandad used or programmed one word at a time.

While 32-bit MCUs are getting all the attention, many embedded systems and products use 8-bit devices. Without risk to the longevity of a new design, selecting a low-pin-count 8-bit MCU that integrates a few precision analogue peripherals, configurable GPIO pins, serial interfaces, and a fast data bus architecture can accomplish a lot.

The same debate that had been occurring around the 4-bit’s successor has the 8-bit device competing against the 16-bit and 32-bit replacements.

8-bit low-pin-count (LPC) microcontrollers have taken advantage of process miniaturisation to improve their features and are now able to perform in more applications than ever before at a lower cost. The core-independent approach by Microchip is an example, where a peripheral can be configured, and then perform a task or tasks in hardware with minimal interaction with the MCU core, thus freeing up processing capability. The innovation seen in 8-bit devices ensures competitiveness against a 32-bit rival.

Hybrid systems are also more prevalent now where an 8-bit device handles delegated tasks requiring fewer resources or at a lower priority.

While even LPC devices were becoming pad-limited by the 0,35 µm technology node, advances in architecture, motor control, smart energy management, Ethernet, and wireless connectivity requirements for home automation and control have led to a new range of applications for 8-bit MCUs.

From the product scope perspective, the reasons why 8-bit devices are just not going away any time soon are the same reasons just over a decade ago that 4-bit devices were still in production from the 1970s.

The following lists shows key performance and device enhancements of where 8-bit devices are continuing to innovate and either retain their established role or enhance it:

• High performance with faster clock speeds

• Integrated features:

o Flash memory.

o Internal high-speed clocks and timers.

o Analogue peripherals.

o Integrated touch controller.

o Motor control.

o Wireless interface.

o Wired network connectivity such as integrated CAN and Ethernet.

• High reliability.

• Small package size.

• Low power consumption.

• Low cost.

• Low electromagnetic interference.

• Wider operating voltage range.

• Code compatibility between older and aging 8-bit devices with new variants or recommended parts.

To change or not to change?

Would one develop a new system using a 4-bit MCU? The answer to this is more than likely an emphatic no. However, could there be a niche opportunity?

Should the application, the budget, or the system requirements meet the need, then one may consider it at the very least. There may also be a deep-pockets client who has a warehouse of them and wants to use them.

For more information contact Haventechnik, +27 78 537 2098, [email protected], www.haventechnik.com




Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Webinar: AMD Vitus Unified Software Platform
DSP, Micros & Memory
By mastering this bi-directional workflow to efficiently transition between AMD Vitis and AMD Vivado environments, design engineers will be able to maximise their productivity.

Read more...
Low-cost i.MX development board
Altron Arrow DSP, Micros & Memory
The FRDM i.MX 93 development board from NXP is a low-cost and compact development board featuring the i.MX93 applications processor.

Read more...
PowerGood DC-DC converter
Vepac Electronics DSP, Micros & Memory
Standard features on the full range of converters include output current limiting and short circuit protection, output over-voltage protection, and input under-voltage lockout.

Read more...
ATmega328P: Getting started without Arduino
DSP, Micros & Memory
In this article, we’ll walk through bringing up the chip completely on its own, using only an external power source and an Atmel-ICE programmer.

Read more...
Integrated IoT development board
DSP, Micros & Memory
The new ESP32 development board from ideaspark features the 32-bit Xtensa dual-core 240 MHz microcontroller combined with a 1,9-inch (6,4 cm) full-colour TFT LCD.

Read more...
QuecPython live demonstration
Quectel Wireless Solutions DSP, Micros & Memory
QuecPython allows designers to adapt Quectel’s modules quickly, with a low-code approach to suit their precise requirements in less time and at reduced cost, while maintaining high security standards.

Read more...
Robust and customisable SBC
Altron Arrow DSP, Micros & Memory
Pairing the powerful i.MX8M Plus System on Module (SoM) from SolidRun, which features the i.MX 8M Plus SoC from NXP, this high-performance SBC is set to transform industrial environments.

Read more...
New family supports future cryptography
Altron Arrow DSP, Micros & Memory
NXP has introduced its new i.MX 94 family, which contains an i.MX MPU with an integrated time-sensitive networking (TSN) switch, enabling configurable, secure communications with rich protocol support in industrial and automotive environments.

Read more...
Fast and reliable 4G connectivity worldwide
TRX Electronics DSP, Micros & Memory
Powered by a powerful Quectel LTE Cat 4 modem, the Arduino Pro 4G module’s fast data throughput and high bandwidths ensure reliable and quick data download and upload, even in remote locations.

Read more...
NXP’s all-purpose microcontroller series
Altron Arrow DSP, Micros & Memory
NXP has released its MCX A14x and A15x series of all-purpose microcontrollers which are part of the larger MCX portfolio that shares a common Arm Cortex-M33 core platform.

Read more...