Embedded tutorial - Understanding multicore technologies

Abstract

Multicore SoCs integrate an increasing number of heterogeneous programmable units and sophisticated communication interconnects. Unlike classic computers, the design of SoC includes the building of application specific architecture and specific interconnect and other hardware components required to execute the software for a well defined class of applications. In this case, the programming model hides both hardware and software interfaces that may include sophisticated communication and synchronisation concepts to handle parallel programs running on the processors. This embedded tutorial introduces the key technologies for the design of such complex devices.