TCP/IP stack adds Internet to microcontrollers

The addition of a very small footprint TCP/IP software stack has added low-overhead Internet connectivity to the NEC 78K0 series of microcontrollers.

NEC has ported the CMX-MicroNet TCP/IP stack from CMX Systems, a very small footprint TCP/IP software stack providing Internet connectivity for embedded processors, to its 78K0 series of microcontrollers.

The NEC 78K0 series of microcontrollers are known for offering high-performance and high-functionality for both general-purpose and specific applications.

An agreement with CMX Systems also enables NEC to act as a distributor for the CMX-MicroNet software, enabling NEC to supply its customers with complete solutions from a single source.

The agreement with CMX Systems means that NEC can now support a complete range of Internet connectivity solutions and applications from 8 to 64bit.

Farrukh Siddiqi, Senior Manager for Marketing and Applications at NEC Electronics (UK), commented: "Building relationships with technology leaders like CMX enables NEC to expand its technical capabilities to meet market demands.

We expect that this partnership will strengthen NEC's position as a leading supplier of complete connectivity solutions".

In addition to the 78K0 support, NEC is also developing a low-cost V850-based Ethernet solution running the CMX-Micronet software.

CMX-MicroNet is a scaled down TCP/IP software stack with a total ROM footprint of 3-20Kbit, depending on configuration, for applications that require a single-chip solution with no external memory.

NEC's 78K Series of 8bit microcontrollers comprises the K0 and K0S families, both of which support a wide selection of peripherals and memory configurations, including versions with fewer peripherals and smaller memory options for more cost-sensitive applications.

Both operate from -40 to +85C, and provide extended voltage ranges as a standard feature for use in challenging application environments.

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