Single Processor for Cellphone Modem

TTPCom has launched a cellular modem reference design implemented on a single processor. Integration of the complete modem, from protocol stack to RF drivers, on one processor, frees up the second processor completely for hosting applications or open operating systems.

Traditionally, cellular modem chips have been designed around two separate processors; a Microcontroller Unit (MCU) in which protocol and application software co-exist, and a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) for the signal processing functions. However, with the recent development of more powerful processor cores TTPCom has added an option to its Cellular Baseband Engine (CBE) that enables the entire cellular modem to run on the DSP. The consequent separation of the modem and application environments simplifies handset design, enables much faster integration of the sophisticated services that are a feature of the modern mobile device, and removes bottlenecks by enabling the modem and the applications environments to evolve separately.

Julian Hildersley, Managing Director of TTPCom's Silicon Business Unit commented: "The entire wireless industry stands to benefit from the development of a single processor modem: for semiconductor vendors the simplified architecture shortens modem time to market; for handset manufacturers easier integration of new applications enables them to launch new products faster; the network operators benefit from the early deployment of new revenue-generating services and the user will gain from a wider choice of exciting devices". He added, "In future we'll see the modem and applications roadmaps proceeding in parallel but at different rates. This is already a key issue for both silicon and handset developers and is set to become more significant as handset functionality evolves, particularly with the importance of open operating systems".

Frazer Bennett, Sales Director, Silicon Business Unit, commented, "TTPCom has been providing silicon developers with wireless hardware and software IP for more than a decade. Our single processor modem builds on this experience - we have rethought the modem architecture and the result is a design that will improve our customers' products considerably. The design is already being built into our customers' chips today"."

Posted to the site on 22nd January 2004