IPv6 microcontrollers

Fujitsu Microelectronics has introduced a family of microcontrollers developed for network-enabled household appliances, including what is claimed to be the industry's first 32 bit MCUs that incorporate a full range of networking security features, onboard ROM and RAM and support for IPv6, the next-generation internet protocol.

The MB9140x series features the MB91403, which includes encryption circuitry supporting the Advanced Data Encryption Standard, Data Encryption Standard, 3DES and other established cryptographic systems.

The encryption circuits are 150 to 200 times faster than software-based encryption and are complemented by authentication circuitry.

The series also supports the MD5 and SHAR1 authentication standards, key exchange methods DH 1/DH 2, and the internet key exchange protocol with hardware engine.

The series also includes the MB91401, a 32 bit network system MCU that supports IPv6, and the MB91402, which is available for users whose designs do not require security features.

All the MCUs can operate as standalone systems or as companion chips for existing designs.

Each of the system-on-chip MCUs is designed to simplify development of IPv6-capable products. Onboard, high-capacity ROM and RAM reduce the need to add external memory. Each device incorporates all the basic functions needed to serve as a controller for an appliance, including a 32 bit RISC CPU, an FR core, timer, interrupt controller and UART.

The MB9140x family incorporates 8 KB of high-speed data RAM, 4 KB instruction cache, along with 256 KB ROM and 64 KB RAM, which reduce the need for external memory chips.

If more RAM is needed, SDRAMs can be added externally in applications where the device can serve as a buffer for a high-data-traffic application, or to cache data that is transmitted over the network.

The device supports IPv6 over ethernet running at either 10 or 100 Mbps, enabling internet-capable appliances to connect to the network using individual IP addresses.