64-bit MPUs with RTOS enable high-definition HMI
RZ/A3UL microprocessors (MPUs) from Renesas enable both a high-definition human machine interface (HMI) and quick start up for applications that require high throughput and real-time capabilities.
The RZ/A3UL can be used with a real time operating system (RTOS) and has a 64-bit Arm Cortex-A55 CPU core with a maximum operating frequency of 1.0GHz. Using an RTOS allows systems to start up instantly, in less than a second after boot-up, confirmed Renesas. This feature is suitable for systems that require a fast response time such as industrial equipment, home appliances and office automation equipment with liquid crystal displays or control panels, as well as audio equipment and point of sale terminals.
The RZ/A3UL MPUs integrate an Octal-SPI memory interface for simpler and more compact board designs, advised Renesas. The family includes versions that support a DDR3L/DDR4 memory interface to enable connection of high-speed DRAM. For example, the DDR3L/DDR4 memory interface achieves a data transfer speed that is approximately 10 times faster than the Octal-SPI memory interface. This is sufficient to enable an HD (1280 x 720) class display and an interactive HMI using camera input or various types of sensors.
The RZ/A3UL supports FreeRTOS and Azure RTOS. Renesas is a license provider of Azure RTOS for the RZ family, which means users can simply download the high-performance Azure RTOS from GitHub. Renesas also offers a Flexible Software Package including FreeRTOS and HAL (hardware abstraction layer) drivers that developers can use as a reference when developing their own applications. An extensive suite of middleware is also available for both operating systems, further reducing the time and cost for development.
The peripheral functions and package pin assignments of the RZ/A3UL are compatible with the RZ/G2UL which employs the Cortex-A55 core targeting Linux-based HMI applications, and with the RISC-V-based RZ/Five products. This means that engineers can develop new products using the same board design, simply by replacing the chip. The compatibility between devices also allows engineers to easily transition from a product that runs an RTOS to a Linux-based product, facilitating efficient development across multiple product models.
The RZ/A3UL MPUs and development tools are available now.
