Cortex-M1

High-Performance FPGA Processor

This high-performance, 32-bit processor has been developed by ARM in collaboration with Actel for implementation in FPGAs. This is the first ARM processor developed specifically for FPGAs. Cortex-M1 is fast and optimized for size in programmable logic.

Cortex Family Member

Cortex-M1 is part of the growing ARM family of Cortex processors and is derived from the Cortex-M3 pipeline. It runs the classic Thumb® instruction set, so existing Thumb code can be run on the processor without change. If users want to move from an FPGA to an ASIC, programs written for Cortex- M1 can be run on Cortex-M3, which can be licensed from ARM for ASIC implementation. This gives users a real path to ASIC implementation, which is not the case with proprietary 32-bit architectures offered by other FPGA companies.

Efficient FPGA Design

Cortex-M1 has a three-stage pipeline that offers a good balance between size and speed when implemented in an FPGA. The processor runs the ARMv6-M instruction set and supports instruction and data tightly coupled memories (TCMs). It has a configurable nested interrupt controller, optional fast or small hardware multiplier, and can be implemented with or without the debug block. Cortex-M1 is available in CoreConsole and connects to the Advanced High-Performance Bus (AHB) so designers can build their subsystems and easily add peripheral functionality to the processor.

Available in M1 Devices

Cortex-M1 is available for use in M1 flash family devices, which have been made ARM-enabled for seamless use of this next-generation processor core. The M1 devices are based on Actel nonvolatile flash technology and offer all the features and benefits of the low-cost ProASIC3, mixed-signal Fusion, and ultra-low-power IGLOO FPGAs.

• Developed with ARM specifically for FPGA implementation
• No license fees or royalties
• 3-stage, 32-bit pipeline – ARMv6-M instruction set architecture
• User-programmed into the FPGA
• All Cortex-M1 I/Os are accessible to the user
• Upward-compatible with Cortex-M3
• Executes all Thumb code – can run ARM7 and ARM9™ Thumb subroutines
• Supported by a full range of development tools