Atmel and Telit revolutionize machine-to-machine communications system design for processor-intensive applications
(Technology News, 10 Apr 2008 )
Atmel Corporation (Nasdaq: ATML) and Telit Communications PLC (AIM: TCM), an international leader in the field of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, disclosed recently that Telit has been harnessing the expertise of microcontroller leader Atmel for the development of its high-performance M2M modules. The GE863-PRO3 is the first product in Telit’s dual-processor range to feature an Atmel AT91SAM9260 ARM9-based processor running the application in tandem with a dedicated processor for GPRS communication. It provides the extremely high processing power and the flexibility to support today’s rapidly changing M2M market that demands more advanced features and more processing power at ever-shorter intervals. Its standard form factor and easy integration make the Telit module particularly attractive for applications such as POS terminals or fleet management. The GE863-PRO3 has met with tremendous market success since its launch in Q4 2007.
The core of the GE863-PRO3 is the AT91SAM9260, an ARM9-based embedded processor from Atmel that delivers processing power above 200 MIPS. Whereas in the past just one sub-50 MIPS microcontroller took care of alternate communication and application tasks, the additional AT91SAM9260 processor now controls only real-time applications, while the second GPRS processor handles time-critical GPRS communications transactions.
The GE863-PRO3 is designed as a small footprint platform that can be easily adapted to rapidly changing demand in the M2M market without the need to re-design the hardware. This is assured by a standard form factor, tried-and-tested BGA (Ball Grid Array) assembly and sufficient integrated memory for software applications. It thus facilitates a short time-to-market with a simultaneous reduction in development costs for applications. “By selecting a dual processor approach and using a high performance standard microcontroller supported by an extensive eco-system to run the application layers, integrating future demand becomes less time consuming, lower risk and less costly. With its core values of investment protection, easy integration, high quality and scalability, Telit is focusing precisely on the aspects that will in future be the key determinants of success in the M2M market,” said Jacko Wilbrink, Atmel’s ARM® Product Marketing Director. “This makes Telit an ideal partner to help us to become established in this market.”
Telit’s PRO3 professional dual-processor range can be adapted to the particular needs of specialist areas thanks to a number of expansion options. The WiFi add-on WA100-DUAL, for example, facilitates the wireless connections over short distances that are needed for fleet management. Hand-held devices and scanners on the loading ramp can thus transfer information on stock management or facilitate data transfer with lorries.
