By combining the math of PHY processing with the logic of MAC processing onto a single chip, Texas Instruments has advanced the functionality of digital signal processors (DSPs) for complex, multiprocessing beyond 3G cellular infrastructure applications such as HSPA/HSPA+, LTE and WiMAX Wave 2. This new single-core 1 GHz DSP also delivers high data throughput and reduced latency for high quality of service, and potentially eliminates the need for a costly RISC co-processor.
By nature, DSPs are exceptional tools for performing the same math task repeatedly at very high speeds. However, their functionality is generally limited when the task requires logic, a function typically performed by a hardwired co-processor with customised software to perform the task. By enhancing the memory and cache performance, coupled with the high-performance TMS320C64x+ core, the new TMS320TCI6484 DSP reaches high levels of functionality. It also includes additional high performance accelerators and peripheral interfaces which are optimised for cellular infrastructure products.
Efficient MAC-layer processing in wireless base-stations hinges upon available memory and rapid access to stored data. The TCI6484 designers boosted the Level 2 cache memory by 4x versus previous generations. The larger on-chip cache memory stores frequently used instructions, keeping them closer at hand and eliminating the time spent accessing data stored on slower, external memory.
Data that is stored externally can be accessed faster than previous chips with the double data rate (DDR2) memory interface. Faster access reduces latency - a major obstacle for data-intensive applications such as realtime conferencing and streaming media. Not only is latency reduced but the TCI6484 supports symbol rate processing at 34 Mbps, making it an ideal platform for high-density, low-cost base-stations. The chip supports symbol rate processing needed for multiple sectors or carriers for multiple air interfaces including GSM-EDGE, Evolved EDGE, WCDMA, HSPA/HSPA+, TDS-CDMA, WiMAX Wave 2 and LTE.
The TCI6484 leverages the same 1 GHz TMS320C64x+ core found in other DSPs from TI, making it code compatible with previous generations. TI also offers optimised software libraries for WiMAX Wave 2, LTE and HSPA+. These libraries enable higher channel density as well as lower power per channel. System level testing can be accomplished with a hardware development card that supports two TCI6484 devices.
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