Soft-Core Processor - obsolescence mitigation a reality?

Paul Carpenter wrote:

>> Another reason I'm leaning towards the soft-core approach is that
>> there aren't any MCUs that have the I/O requirements of the projects
>> in mind. Going down the discreet MCU path would mean that I'd need an
>> FPGA anyway! But there is always the risk of the FPGA vendor pulling
>> the plug on the soft-core.  Hence, all the other techniques to
>> mitigate obsolescence of code (HAL etc.)

There are free, open-source soft core processors out there that would
negate the prospect of the vendor "pulling the plug". Choose a legacy core
and you have a choice of free, open-source compilers/assemblers as well -
obsolescence won't be an issue (although certification of the core/tools
may be in some applictions I suppose).

Choosing an open soft-core with open tools and implementing an abstraction
layer for your PC/external interface is the best way IMHO to future-proof
the design.

Regards,

-- 
Mark McDougall, Engineer
Virtual Logic Pty Ltd, <http://www.vl.com.au>
21-25 King St, Rockdale, 2216
Ph: +612-9599-3255 Fax: +612-9599-3266