Introduction

1.3Tornado* for I20* Software Development Toolset

Tornado for I20 is a complete toolset featuring an integrated development environment including a compiler, assembler, linker, and debugger. It also features a real-time operating system.

1.3.1IxWorks* Real-Time Operating System

The IQ80960RM/RN platforms are equipped with Wind River Systems, Inc.’s IxWorks*. IxWorks provides for the elements of the I2O standard: an event-driven driver framework, host message protocols, and executive modules for configuration and control. IxWorks also allows for the writing of basic device drivers and provides NOS-to-driver independence. TORNADO for I2O provides a visual environment for building, testing and debugging of I2O drivers.

1.3.2TORNADO Build Tools

TORNADO for I2O includes a collection of supporting tools that provide a complete development tool chain. These include the compiler, assembler, linker and binary utilities. Also provided is an I2O module builder, which creates I2O-loadable modules.

1.3.3TORNADO Test and Debug Tools

TORNADO for I2O test and debug tools include the dynamic loader, the CrossWind∗ debugger, the WindSh* interactive shell, and a system browser.

The dynamic loader allows for interactive loading, testing, and replacement of individual object modules that comprise a driver.

CrossWind is an extended version of GDB960. Using it you can debug I2O drivers by setting breakpoints on desired I2O components. A variety of windows display source code, registers, locals, stack frame, memory and so on.

WindSh allows you to communicate to the IQ80960RM/RN platform via an RS-232 serial port. The IQ80960RM/RN platform supports port speeds from 300 to 115,200 bps. The shell can be used to:

control and monitor I2O drivers

format, send and receive driver messages

examine hardware registers

run automated I2O test suites

The shell also provides essential debugging capabilities; including breakpoints, single stepping, stack checking, and disassembly.

1-4

IQ80960RM/RN Evaluation Board Manual

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Intel RN manual Tornado* for I20* Software Development Toolset, IxWorks* Real-Time Operating System, Tornado Build Tools

RN, IQ80960RM specifications

The Intel IQ80960RM and RN are part of the Intel i960 family of microprocessors, which were specifically designed for embedded applications in real-time computing environments. Introduced in the early 1990s, these processors were aimed at providing high-performance processing capabilities in industrial, telecommunications, and military systems.

One of the key features of the IQ80960RM and RN is their ability to support a 32-bit architecture, delivering a significant performance advantage over 16-bit and earlier processors. This architecture enables the execution of complex algorithms and the management of large amounts of data, making these microprocessors suitable for demanding applications.

The i960 family is built around a superscalar architecture, allowing multiple instructions to be completed in a single clock cycle. This is achieved through advanced instruction pipelining, which significantly boosts throughput and overall computational speed. The IQ80960RM and RN also included features like branch prediction and out-of-order execution, enhancing efficiency and reducing latency in real-time applications.

Memory management capabilities are another strong point of the IQ80960RM and RN. They support both virtual and physical memory addressing, enabling sophisticated memory management strategies. Their integrated memory management unit (MMU) allows for easier and more effective memory allocation, critical for real-time operating systems that require precise timing and resource management.

Furthermore, these processors are designed with an extensive instruction set architecture (ISA), which supports a wide range of operations, including digital signal processing (DSP) tasks. This versatility allows them to be utilized in various applications, from automotive systems to robotics, where reliable performance is paramount.

The thermal performance and power efficiency of the IQ80960RM and RN has also been a notable characteristic. With operational capabilities across various temperature ranges, these chips are well-suited for harsh environments often found in industrial settings.

In terms of connectivity, the IQ80960 series supports multiple I/O interfaces and communication protocols, ensuring that they can integrate seamlessly with other components and systems. This flexibility enhances their usability in networked applications, particularly in embedded systems.

Overall, the Intel IQ80960RM and RN processors represent a significant step forward in embedded processor technology, characterized by their robust performance, advanced features, and ability to meet the stringent demands of real-time applications across various industries.