Actel

toc =Actel= [|Actel] manufactures numerous MCUs and each MCU has specific target. For our application we decided to look in [|Actel's Core8051]. Core8051 is a 8-Bit 8051 MCU based on famous Intel 8051 architecture. At one clock per instruction Core8051 runs much faster and has substantially increased throughput compared to the original 8051 implementations. The core can be used to run programs written for the 8051 without change, and is compatible with the existing 8051 tools. Core8051 supports 13 interrupts and has a UART, 2 counter/timers, and 4 8-bit ports.

This MCU is evaluated below and it is concluded that since it does not meet the I/O pins and cost requirement it is not recommended for our application.

**Core8051**




Summary of features

 * Microcontroller || Core8051 ||
 * I/O Ports || 8-bit Four ports ||
 * Timers/Counters || Two 16-bit Timers/Counters ||
 * MCU Speed || Up to 8 MIPS ||
 * External Memory || Up to 256 KB ||
 * Internal Memory || Up to 64 KB ||
 * Clock Speed || 19~52 MHz ||

Evaluation
This MCU runs at 19 to 52 Mhz with throughput of up to 8 MIPS. It definitely is enough for our application and haptics implementation as we require at least 1 MHz refresh rate.
 * Microcontroller speed (MIPS, clock speed for communications channels, etc.):**

It supports 64 KB internal memory and 256 KB external memory. This amount should be more than enough for our application.
 * The memory sizes (program memory/ Flash, RAM, data EEPROM):**

There are total of four 8-bit I/O ports. Thus total of 32 I/O pins. The amount is enough for our application. We need to be able to generate PWM from these pins. We require at least 10 dedicated PWM pins since we are using 10 servos. Also, we would need some extra pins for collision sensors. Therefore, we need to employ MUX and DEMUX.
 * The number of I/O pins required:**

This particular MCU supports serial communication, such as through RS232. Though there are only two timers/counters. We need enough number of timers/counters to measure sensor and servos inputs. We have 10 servos and at least two collision sensors and some force sensors.
 * Peripherals needed (ADC, Input Capture, Output Compare, Motor Control PWM, SPI™, UART, etc.):**

No explicit size is mentioned but its not our main requirement.
 * Physical Size (form factor/package):**

There was no explicit mention of voltage. But it is not our concern as we will use dedicated power supply.
 * Analog Input Voltage Levels:**

Core8051 uses C language for development of software and employs industry standard ASM51 assember.
 * Programming Language:**

Price not available right now at the available [|retailer].
 * Cost:**