August 27, 2001 - National Semiconductor Corporation (NYSE: NSM) today introduced a new feature-packed embedded low pin count controller that should provide dramatic power and cost savings for PC notebook manufacturers. The latest addition to National's industry-leading line of embedded low pin count controllers, the PC87591, combines National's high-performance, 16-bit CompactRISC™ both custom and conventional peripherals to provide a wide range of portable applications with advanced battery savings and security function support.
National's keyboard controllers are designed to provide continuous system cost reductions for National's customers. The PC87591 is "Legacy Free" and offers the best system cost savings over other keyboard controller configurations. According to National's research, the PC87591 will save customers more than $5 per system by integrating traditional keyboard components into a complete system design.
Features and Benefits
Designed specifically for notebook PCs, the PC87591 features the typical keyboard controller functions such as internal keyboard matrix scan and decode, as well as acting as an interface between the external keyboard and mouse. In addition, the PC87591 can secure the PC by utilizing an on-chip random number generator to implement advanced password protection, BIOS integrity checking, and memory protection.
The PC87591 offers the lowest power consumption of any device in its class due to aggressive power down modes with fast wakeup. Idle current is less than 15 uA, while fully active current consumption is 20 mA @ 4MHz, 30 mA @ 20 MHz - a benefit for notebooks and portable applications. The PC87591 can quickly switch between Idle and Active mode and between operation frequencies, enabling further reduction of power consumption based on real-time processing needs.
The PC87591 utilizes a high performance 16-bit RISC processor and a large 2MB address space for easy integration of concurrent functions - a necessity in today's competitive notebook market. This means that the PC87591 can implement the normal keyboard and mouse functions of a standard keyboard controller -- implementing advanced power-savings modes to prolong battery life in the notebook PC and add full battery charging and conditioning software and firmware. At the same time, the PC87591 can take over additional functions like controlling the CD drive in the notebook to allow users to listen to their music, even when the notebook PC is powered down.
The PC87591 offers the only fully upgradeable system due to its on-chip Flash memory. Innovative programming of the flash allows for a complete in-system firmware (and BIOS) update by the host. In an emergency or catastrophic failure, update via the JTAG interface is possible. The PC87591 offers the best debug support available today through the same JTAG interface and a complete library of debugging functions (TMONlib) for BIOS writers and developers. This allows debugging support, even in the closed box - an industry first. There is no need for ISE (in-circuit emulators) that are expensive and difficult to use.
The PC87591 implements unique security capabilities via integrated peripherals including the hardware random number generator (RNG). Using this hardware and crafted firmware, users can assemble a secure login that is virtually impossible to "crack." The security software also enables users to test the integrity of the BIOS (control code that runs the PC under the operating system). If this basic code is damaged by a virus or hardware failure, the whole PC's health is in jeopardy. The PC87591 can also restrict access to the system flash memory, where BIOS is stored, to further enhance the reliability of the PC.
The PC87591 incorporates National's world-class analog expertise as well. These devices can directly measure CPU temperature via an integrated diode on the CPU die without any external components. It also directly reads the ambient temperature and various system voltages, monitoring the health of the notebook PC, and maximizing performance under severe thermal constraints. These advanced analog capabilities of the PC87591 allow you to aggressively run the Pentium processor closer to its speed/temperature limits - increasing the notebook performance - for no additional cost.
Pricing and Availability
The PC87591 is available now in both 128-pin and 176-pin LQFP packages. In 1,000 unit quantities, the PC87591S with 128K Flash, 4K RAM, and RNG costs $15.00, while the PC87591E with 64K Flash, 2K RAM, and without the security function costs $13.80. A chip scale package option will be available Q4. Datasheets are posted at www.national.com/appinfo/advancedio/.
National is Silver Sponsor at Intel Developer Forum Fall 2001
National Semiconductor will be exhibiting its new embedded controller at the Intel Developer Forum Fall 2001 in San Jose, August 27-30, in booth number 800. For more information on National's activities at this event, visit its web site at www.national.com/events/.
About National Semiconductor
National Semiconductor is the premier analog company driving the information age. Combining real-world analog and state-of-the-art digital technology, the company is focused on the fast growing markets for wireless handsets; information appliances; information infrastructure; and display, imaging and human interface technologies. With headquarters in Santa Clara, California, National reported sales of $2.1 billion for its last fiscal year and has about 10,000 employees worldwide. Additional company and product information is available on the World Wide Web at www.national.com.
