Chipus provides a series of analog IPs for a proprietary microcontroller IC - ZR16

Novmber 15, 2010 -- Chipus Microelectronics, a high performance analog and mixed-signal IP (intellectual property) supplier, has successfully integrated a set of analog IPs in a proprietary microcontroller chip designed by Brazilian design houses, the ZR16. The microcontroller is a joint development between Chipus and Santa Maria Design House (SMDH).

ZR16 is a microcontroller that contains a proprietary microprocessor, memory and a set of custom and high performance analog functions. 'The chip targets control, automation, lighting, and appliances applications, with a processor characterized by its simplified architecture and reduced number of instructions' says Roberto Pacheco, SMDH manager. The integrated circuit prototype will be tested in December and will also be subject to field tests in the products of a leading Brazilian company in this market, Exatron (www.exatron.com.br). Besides the testchip, a full set of software supporting tools such as a compiler, a programmer and a simulator is being developed to allow Brazilian electronic companies to use the microcontroller as soon as its production starts.

The microcontroller intellectual property belongs to Chipus, SMDH and C&P, and the integrated circuit itself will be commercialized by a representative or, in another business model, the IPs will be licensed to other design houses as cores to be integrated in their chips. 'In this so-far successful joint development, SMDH provided the digital front-end synthesis, verifications and back-end implementation, while we contributed with the analog IPs and the whole chip integration in X-FAB's 0.35µm technology', says Murilo Pessatti, CEO of Chipus.

About Chipus

Chipus Microelectronics is an analog IP design house with focus on data converters, analog front-end and power management solutions for fabless semiconductor companies and chip integrators. Configurable IP core architectures allow higher level of customization together with high IP portability, providing unique level of freedom on customer design requirements. Website: www.chipus-ip.com.

About Santa Maria Design House

The Santa Maria Design House´s objective is the design of integrated circuits from specification to prototyping and manufacturing (third party foundry) of the chip. SMDH counts on a team of digital and analog IC design engineers, uniting the best chip development professionals coming from semiconductor companies, and holding Master and PhD degrees. Website: www.smdh.org.