Glossary

synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM): RAM whose contents is refreshed periodically so the data is not lost. Transfer of data is at a fixed rate relative to the clock speed of the device.

syntax: The grammatical and structural rules of a language. All higher-level programming languages possess a formal syntax.

system software: The blanketing term used to denote collectively the chip support libraries and board support libraries.

T

tag: The 18 most significant bits of the program address. This value corre- sponds to the physical address of the fetch packet that is in that frame.

timer: A programmable peripheral used to generate pulses or to time events.

TIMER module: TIMER is an API module used for configuring the timer reg- isters.

W

word: A multiple of eight bits that is operated upon as a unit. For the ‘C6x, a word is 32 bits in length.

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Texas Instruments TMS320C6000 manual Glossary A-9

TMS320C6000 specifications

The Texas Instruments TMS320C6000 series is a family of digital signal processors (DSPs) that has gained significant traction in the field of digital signal processing since its introduction. Leveraging advanced processing technologies, the TMS320C6000 DSPs are particularly recognized for their high-performance capabilities, efficiency, and versatility, making them suitable for a wide variety of applications, including telecommunications, audio and video processing, medical instrumentation, and more.

One of the main features of the TMS320C6000 series is its advanced architecture, which incorporates a superscalar pipeline. This allows for the simultaneous execution of multiple instructions, leading to enhanced processing speeds. The architecture is designed to support both fixed-point and floating-point operations, offering flexibility for different computational requirements. The use of VLIW (Very Long Instruction Word) technology allows the execution of multiple operations in a single instruction cycle, further maximizing performance.

The TMS320C6000 family utilizes high-speed memory architectures, including a sophisticated cache system that minimizes memory access delays. Built-in hardware accelerators for specific functions, such as fast Fourier transforms (FFTs) and filter algorithms, streamline processing tasks that are critical in real-time applications. The DSPs also support a range of data formats, enabling them to handle diverse data types efficiently.

An important aspect of the TMS320C6000 series is its scalability. The family includes a wide range of devices, from low-power processors suitable for portable equipment to high-performance models designed for demanding computation tasks. This scalability ensures that developers can select the appropriate DSP for their specific application requirements.

In terms of power efficiency, the TMS320C6000 processors are designed to deliver high performance with optimized power consumption. This makes them ideal for battery-operated devices where power management is a critical concern. Additionally, TI's software tools, such as Code Composer Studio, provide developers with an integrated development environment that simplifies the design process and enhances productivity.

Lastly, the extensive support for various communication interfaces, including PCI, USB, and Ethernet, allows for seamless integration into existing systems. With a rich ecosystem of hardware and software support, the TMS320C6000 series remains a popular choice for engineers seeking powerful and versatile DSP solutions in modern electronic design.