Semiconductor IP provider Synopsys announced the extension of its ARC processor IP portfolio to include new RISC-V-based offerings. The new Synopsys ARC-V processor IP gives designers more architecture choices and aims to optimize power and performance efficiency for embedded applications spanning automotive, IoT, and storage.
Leveraging decades of experience developing commercial processor IP, Synopsys built the ARC-V portfolio on the proven microarchitecture of existing ARC processors. This allows ARC-V to benefit from the expanding RISC-V software ecosystem. The ARC-V processor IP comes in 32-bit and 64-bit options with high-performance, mid-range, and ultra-low power variants to address diverse workloads.
For software development, ARC-V is supported by Synopsys' mature MetaWare toolkit for generating optimized code. Synopsys.ai, the company's AI-driven EDA suite, is co-optimized with ARC-V IP as well. This integrated environment aims to boost productivity and quality for ARC-V based SoC designs.
RISC-V's open architecture offers flexibility that is driving adoption across the semiconductor industry. For automotive applications in particular, the resilience provided by open standards like RISC-V allows chipmakers to meet demanding safety requirements. Infineon, a Synopsys partner, plans to utilize ARC-V IP in future automotive microcontrollers targeting functional safety certifications.
On the functional safety front, Synopsys offers ARC-V configurations with built-in safety capabilities for ASIL B and ASIL D. This enables easier compliance with ISO 26262 automotive safety standards. The ARC-V portfolio also includes options for host processors, real-time control, and deeply embedded applications.
Verification solutions from Synopsys like virtual prototyping, simulation, and hardware-assisted technologies aim to accelerate validation and software development for ARC-V based SoCs. The company provides Fusion QuickStart kits to help designers optimize power, performance, and area as well.
Synopsys ARC-V will be generally available beginning in 2024, starting with the 32-bit RMX embedded processor IP. The 32-bit RHX real-time and 64-bit RPX host processors will follow later in the year. As a major player in the processor IP space, Synopsys' RISC-V offerings should provide designers more alternatives to balance workload needs with efficiency.