Post by dgriffin on Mar 13, 2012 8:33:39 GMT -5
Arm's latest processors aim to stretch internet's reach
By Leo Kelion Technology reporter
Arm Holdings has unveiled what it describes as the "world's most energy-efficient microprocessor" design.
The firm says that microcontrollers based on the "Flycatcher" architecture will pave the way for the "internet of things" - the spread of the net to a wider range of devices.
It suggests that fridges and other white goods, medical equipment, energy meters, and home and office lighting will all benefit from the innovation.
Two firms have licensed the technology.
They are NXP Semiconductors and Freescale.
"It opens up all devices to the potential of being connected all the time," Freescale's Geoff Lees told the BBC.
"It's allowing us to provide connectivity everywhere. So anything from consumer appliances, MP3-music audio docks, kitchen equipment with displays right through to remote sensors in rain monitoring equipment or personal medical devices - an area where ultra-low battery life allied to high performance and safety is becoming more and more important."
MORE at:
www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-17345934