32-bit ARM® MPU

MPU Overview

What is an MPU?
At Microchip an MPU or Microprocessor Unit is high-performance processing device that offers a balance of rich peripherals and user interfaces.

MPU vs MCU
MPU MCU
No embedded non-volatile Embedded RAM and EEPROM
High-end architecture Typically traditional von Neumann or Harvard architecture
Higher performance Low to medium performance
Included Memory Management Unit (MMU) No MMU
Built for multitasking Little or no multitasking support

32-bit ARM® MPU Evolution

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SAM9 and SAMA5

SAM9 and SAMA5 Families

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MPU Product Families

SAM9 Series

The SAM9 family is based on the ARM926EJ-S™ processor.

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Features :

  • ARM926EJ-S™ Core Up to 400 MHz
  • Memory types:
    • SDRAM (Single Data Rate SDRAM), LPDDR, (LP)DDR2
    • Raw MLC NAND, 24 bit ECC
    • SD Card/Managed NAND Support
  • Industrial Solutions
    • Dual CAN
    • Dual EMAC (SAM9_5Series)
    • Up to three USB Ports
  • User Interface
    • 24-bits LCD Interface
    • Graphics Acceleration (9263)
    • Camera Interface
  • Small Footprint and Die (15x15 or 10x10 packages)

More information can be found here:
SAM9G MPU family
SAM9X MPU family

SAMA5 Families

The SAMA5 runs up to 600 MHz. Consuming low power, the SAMA5 ARM Cortex®-A5 based MPU is ideal for high-performance, low-power and cost-sensitive industrial applications. These characteristics make it the perfect choice for anything that needs high levels of connectivity, enhanced user interfaces, robust security, or battery operation. The devices come with free Atmel Linux and Android™ ports, Qt SDK, and a complete set of C examples for non-OS users. SOM (System On Modules), PMIC (Power Management IC), memories and kits from multiple software and hardware partners complete this offering.

There are 3 SAMA5D series:

  • SAMA5D2 series:

The SAMA5D2 series extends the SAMA5 family by offering great features integrated into lower pin count packages, making it ideal for applications where security, power consumption or space constraints are key considerations.

  • SAMA5D3 series:

Operating at 850DMIPS at under 150mW, the SAMA5D3 MPU is ideal for any high-performance, low-power and cost-sensitive industrial application.

  • SAMA5D4 series:

The SAMA5D4 MPU operates at 945 DMIPS, includes a 720p hardware video decoder and high level of security making it ideal for any high-performance, secure and cost-sensitive industrial application requiring video playback. Updated A5D4 speed from 528 Mhz to 600 Mhz.

Shared Features

  • Cortex A5 with vFPU @500-600 MHz
  • L1 Cache (2 x 32 kB)
  • 128 kB SRAM
  • DDR2, LPDDR, LPDDR2
  • 24-bit LCD
  • Camera interface
  • USART, SPI, I2C and I2S
  • Linux BSP

SAMA5D Series

Here are some of the major features of the SAMA5D family and where they can be found.

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SAMA5D2 Series Summary

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SAMA5D3 Series Summary

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SAMA5D4 Series Summary

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More information is available here:
SAMA5 families

Notice: ARM and Cortex are the registered trademarks of ARM Limited in the EU and other countries.

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