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Synopsys adds Altera's Nios II processor to ASIC IP

Having recently announced a package that provides a means of putting ARM Cortex M1 cores into its FPGAs, without first becoming an ARM licensee, Altera has now co-operated with Synopsys to take some of its own IP in the “opposite direction”. Synopsys will add the IP for Altera’s NIOS II processor core into the DesignWare Star library for synthesis into ASIC designs. Altera claims that the Nios II processor core is the most widely used FPGA-based processor.
Synopsys will provide a configurable, fully synthesisable version of the Nios II processor core optimised for ASIC implementation in any suitable foundry and process technology. The synthesisable version of the Nios II processor core is expected to be available from Synopsys in the first quarter of 2008.
Echelon and Altera have also announced a collaboration that ports the LonWorks platform to Cyclone FPGAs and Nios II embedded processors for the control automation market. The LonWorks communications protocol (a.k.a. ANSI/EIA709.1 and EN14908) has been ported to the Nios® II embedded processor as implemented in a Cyclone FPGA. This FPGA-based solution, in conjunction with Echelon’s new FTXL high-speed network transceiver, provides – say the two vendors – a quick and easy hardware interface to LonWorks control networks. For example, Echelon’s updated ShortStack 2.1 API can employ a Cyclone III FPGA and Nios II processor to replace as many as four function-specific microprocessors with a single FPGA and a power line smart transceiver. You can reduce cost, complexity, and development time while adding network communications to an appliance that enables utility companies, home appliance OEMs and consumers to effectively manage and control energy consumption. The Shortstack 2.1 API works in conjunction with Echelon’s power line smart transceivers to use the existing electricity wiring in a home for communications.
The Echelon FTXL high-speed network component and ShortStack 2.1 API will be available in January 2008.