Getting Started

4.If you have MON960 installed in the flash ROM, press <ENTER> on a terminal connected to the IQ80960RM/RN platform to bring up the MON960 prompt. MON960 automatically adjusts its baud rate to match that of the terminal at start-up. At baud rates other than 9600, it may be necessary to press <ENTER> several times.

2.4Creating and Downloading Executable Files

To download code to the IQ80960RM/RN platform running IxWorks, consult Wind River documentation on the supplied TORNADO for I2O CD-ROM. To download code to the IQ80960RM/RN platform, your compiler produces an ELF-format object file.

To download code to the IQ80960RM/RN platform running CTOOLS, consult the CTOOLS documentation for information regarding compiling, linking, and downloading applications. During a download, MON960 checks the link address stored in the ELF file, and stores the file at that location on the IQ80960RM/RN platform. If the executable file is linked to an invalid address on the IQ80960RM/RN platform, MON960 aborts the download.

2.4.1Sample Download and Execution Using GDB960

This example shows you how to use GBD960 to download and execute a file named myapp via the serial port.

Invoke GDB960. From a Windows 95/NT command prompt, issue the command: gdb960 -r com2 myapp

This command establishes communication and downloads the file myapp.

To execute the program, enter the command from the GDB960 command prompt:

(gdb960) run

More information on the GDB960 commands mentioned in this section can be found in the GDB960 User’s Manual .

IQ80960RM/RN Evaluation Board Manual

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Intel IQ80960RM, RN manual Creating and Downloading Executable Files, Sample Download and Execution Using GDB960

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.