SA-1110/Applications Processor

 

Migration

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The Intel® PXA250 an PXA210 ap plications processors represent the next generation follow-on to Intel® StrongARM* SA-1110 product. This appendix highlights the migration path needed to change an SA-1110 design to one that uses the applications processor.

The majority of application code running on the SA-1110 will directly run on the applications processor, but there are substantial differences in hardware implementation and low-level coding, especially device configuration, that need to be noted.

The applications processor has numerous new hardware and software features that substantially benefit a handheld product design. The applications processor can be considered a superset of the SA-1110, but with so many new features direct socket compatibility is impractical.

For a detailed analysis of the differences between these products, refer to the full specifications of each device:

•SA-1110 Advanced Developers Manual, Order# 278240 [http://developer.intel.com]

•Intel® PXA250 and PXA210 Applications Processors Developer’s Manual, Order# 278522

•ARM* Architecture Reference Manual, Order# ARM DDI 0100D-10

•Intel 80200 Developers’ manual, Order# 273411-002 [http://developer.intel.com]

Or later updated versions of any of the above.

This appendix is separated into sections that focus on three different issues:

1.SA-1110 hardware migration issues

—Hardware Compatibility

—Signal Changes

—Power Delivery

—Package

—Clocks

—UCB1300

2.SA-1110 software migration issues

—Software Compatibility

—Address space

—Page Table Changes

—Configuration registers

—DMA

3.Using new features in the applications processor

PXA250 and PXA210 Applications Processors Design Guide

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Intel PXA250 and PXA210 manual SA-1110/Applications Processor Migration
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PXA250 and PXA210 specifications

The Intel PXA250 and PXA210 processors, part of the Intel XScale architecture, were introduced in the early 2000s, targeting mobile and embedded applications. They are known for their low power consumption, high performance, and advanced multimedia capabilities, making them suitable for a wide range of devices, including PDAs, smartphones, and other portable computing devices.

The PXA250, which operates at clock speeds ranging from 400 MHz to 624 MHz, features a superscalar architecture that allows it to issue multiple instructions per clock cycle. This enhances the overall performance for demanding applications while maintaining low power usage. It supports a variety of peripheral interfaces, including USB, Ethernet, and various memory types, which contributes to its versatility in different product designs.

One of the key technologies in the PXA250 is the integrated Intel Smart Repeat Technology, which optimizes data processing, thereby reducing the amount of power consumed during operation. This feature is particularly important for battery-powered devices, as it extends the overall battery life, allowing for longer usage times in mobile environments. Additionally, the PXA250 includes a dedicated graphics acceleration unit, which enables enhanced graphics and multimedia performance suited to modern applications at the time.

In contrast, the PXA210 is a more entry-level processor, aimed at cost-sensitive applications. Operating at lower clock speeds, typically around 200 MHz to 400 MHz, it forgoes some of the advanced performance features of the PXA250 while still offering a good balance of performance and power efficiency. The PXA210 is less complex, making it suitable for simpler devices that do not require the extensive capabilities of the PXA250.

Both processors utilize the Intel XScale architecture, which is based on the ARM instruction set. They are built on a 0.13-micron process technology, enabling higher density and lower power consumption compared to their predecessors. With integrated memory controllers and bus interfaces, they facilitate efficient data handling and connectivity options.

In summary, both the Intel PXA250 and PXA210 processors played a crucial role in the evolution of mobile computing by providing powerful processing capabilities with energy efficiency. Their features and technologies enabled device manufacturers to create innovative products that catered to the growing demand for portable devices during that era.
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