The Propeller chip makes it easy to rapidly develop embedded applications. Its eight processors (cogs) can operate simultaneously, either independently or cooperatively, sharing common resources through a central hub. The developer has full control over how and when each cog is employed; there is no compiler-driven or operating system-driven splitting of tasks among multiple cogs. A shared system clock keeps each cog on the same time reference, allowing for true deterministic timing and synchronization. Two programming languages are available: the easy-to-learn high-level Spin, and Propeller Assembly which can execute at up to 160 MIPS (20 MIPS per cog).
Who uses the Propeller?
Due to its diversity, the Propeller Chip may be used for many types of applications. Most users appreciate the overall processing power and I/O capabilities. Hobbyists like the powerful yet easy language while robot builders and process control engineers appreciate the parallel processing capabilities. Many find the on-board video generation and easy connection to popular PC peripherals reduces the need for additional support components.
What do you need to get started?
To get started you need a Propeller Chip and a USB Serial connection to the chip. Some of our development boards and modules have this capability built-in while some require a Prop Plug or Prop Clip. Our affordable Propeller Starter Kit and Propeller Education Kits (40-Pin DIP Version and PropStick USB Version) are all good starting places for many interested hobbyists and students.
Where is the Propeller used?
The Propeller is used in many industries including manufacturing, process control, robotics, automotive and communications. Hobbyists and Engineers alike are finding new uses for this powerful microcontroller every day.
When you might choose to use the Propeller instead of another product?
The Propeller is a good choice over other microcontrollers when a low system part count is desirable due to its ability to provide direct video output and an easy interface to external peripherals such as keyboard, mouse and VGA monitor. Pre-written objects to support many types of hardware also make it an attractive option. All of this plus low cost and a powerful, yet easy language are hard to beat in a world where microcontrollers come in so many flavors that it’s hard to make a choice. The Propeller really is an easy choice.
Why should you use the Propeller?
The Propeller Chip can free system designers from the constraints of many modern microcontroller systems in both hardware and software. The Propeller puts the fun back into design and programming while providing the power and flexibility required in today’s microcontroller-powered applications.
| Propeller Chip Quantities |
| Parallax Part # |
Package |
Rail/Tray QTY |
QTY on Hand |
QTY on Order |
| P8X32A-D40 |
600mil PDIP-40
|
9 per Rail
|
8,300
|
2,500
|
|
P8X32A-Q44
|
10x10mm LQFP-44
|
160 per Tray
|
40,000
|
8,000
|
|
P8X32A-M44
|
9x9mm QFN-44
|
260 per Tray
|
43,000
|
3,000
|
| Propeller Specifications |
| Package Types |
40-pin DIP, 44-pin LQFP, 44-pin QFN |
| Model Number |
P8X32A |
| Parallax Part # |
P8X32A-D40 - DIP package
P8X32A-Q44 - QFP package
P8X32A-M44 - QFN package |
| Power Requirements |
3.3 volts DC |
| External Clock Speed |
DC to 80 MHz
(4 MHz to 8 MHz with Clock PLL running) |
| Internal RC Oscillator |
12 MHz or 20 KHz |
| System Clock Speed |
DC to 80 MHz |
| Global RAM/ROM |
64 K bytes; 32K RAM / 32 K ROM |
| Processor RAM |
2 K bytes each |
| RAM/ROM Organization |
32 bits (4 bytes or 1 long) |
| I/O Pins |
32 |
| Current Source/Sink per I/O |
40 mA |
Parallax Design Required Years of R&D
What can you do with eight 32-bit processors (COGs) in one chip? Real simultaneous multi-processing! The new Propeller chip is the result of our internal design team working for eight years.
The Propeller Chip was designed at the transistor level by schematic using our own Altera Stratix tools to prototype the product. The Propeller chip is programmed in both a high-level language, called Spin™, and low-level (assembly) language. With the set of pre-built Parallax “objects” for video, mice, keyboards, RF, LCDs, stepper motors and sensors, your Propeller application is a matter of high-level integration. The Propeller product line is recommended for those with previous microcontroller experience. Propeller Chips represent the first custom all-silicon product designed by Parallax.
Click here to download a PDF of the above block diagram.
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