The META LTP is a single threaded 32-bit workhorse for deeply embedded control applications in SoCs. It is the ideal choice for low-level control and data flow processing, and is used extensively in Imagination's own IP cores.

Each thread in a META can be configured to be either to be 'GP (general purpose)' or 'DSP'. The GP threads utilise a highly optimised RISC-like instruction set, with smaller footprint instruction sets also available to minimise code size, and can also run DSP code. Each DSP-tailored thread also adds ALU resources and more registers to enable the processor to execute advanced DSP algorithms such as audio codecs, modems and more with maximum performance.

META processors run a wide range of operating systems, including full Linux (both single processor and SMP), and Imagination's own MeOS RTOS (Real Time Operating System). Indeed, META is the only processor architecture able to support multiple OS without the need for any virtualisation layer – the underlying architecture inherently delivers this capability. META is highly suitable for porting other high level open source OS such as Symbian or Android. Threads running low level tasks can also be run natively without any OS for maximum efficiency. SMP Linux enables the benefits of multi-processing and hardware multi-threading to be brought together under a familiar Linux environment, enabling software engineers to take advantage of many of the benefits of hardware multi-threading without having to write any special code.

The META architecture throttles back aggressive code using AMA (Automatic MIPS Allocation) which also enables the system designer to adjust what percentage of total MIPS is made available to each thread. META can combine applications from legacy developments while minimising the impact of 'selfish software' on other threads. META's superthreading feature enables threads to run simultaneously provided they are not competing for the same resources, an approach with significant benefits over superscalar architectures. Superthreading allows more work per clock cycle so the SoC can run at lower clock speeds while AMA handles system load-balancing to meet processing deadlines.

About Imagination Technologies

Imagination Technologies Group plc (LSE:IMG) – a global leader in multimedia and communication silicon technologies – creates and licenses market-leading processor cores for graphics, video, multi-threaded embedded processing/DSP and multi-standard communications applications. These silicon intellectual property (IP) solutions for systems-on-chip (SoC) are complemented by strong array of software tools and drivers as well as extensive developer and middleware ecosystems. Target markets includemobile phone, handheld multimedia, home consumer entertainment, mobile and low-power computing, and in-car electronics.Its licensees include many of the leading semiconductor and consumer electronics companies. Imagination has corporate headquarters in the United Kingdom, with sales and R&D offices worldwide. See: www.imgtec.com.



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