Intel Looks To Third-Party IP
By Ed Sperling
Intel is headed down an entirely new path with its Atom chip—one that uses third-party IP instead of just its own.
The shift is significant because it means that Intel is adding even more flexibility into its processor design than just the software that runs on it. The base configuration also can be changed to go after specialized markets more quickly, particularly in markets where it may be necessary to slash power or add embedded controllers or IP.
“There are more IP blocks at the lower level than ever before,” said Jonathan Luse, director of marketing for the low-power Embedded Products Division of Intel, who noted that in the embedded world this is common practice.
Many industry watchers have wondered, since Intel struck a deal with TSMC to manufacture its Atom processor, whether Intel would take advantage of the raft of IP that TSMC has available, either directly or through third-party agreements.
The move is similar to one that AMD took several years ago, when it began opening the core of its main processors to third-party IP in an effort to reduce development costs. Intel is still developing its own IP for its higher-end processors, which it also manufactures in its own fabs. But for Atom, where it faces stiff competition from companies like ARM, Texas Instruments, Freescale and STMicroelectronics, reducing costs and getting to market more quickly with a customized offering is far more critical.
Tags: Intel