ARM Announces Free Processor Access Via Web Distribution

Breakthrough business model extends existing ARM Foundry Program and provides instant ARM7TDMI processor access to thousands of design teams worldwide

CAMBRIDGE, UK - Apr. 11, 2005 - ARM [(LSE:ARM)]; (Nasdaq:ARMHY)], today announced its new DesignStart™ program, which will provide developers with access to the ARM7TDMI® processor for the TSMC, UMC, SMIC and Chartered Semiconductor process technologies. This program will use the web channel developed for its Artisan® physical IP products to distribute the DesignStart kit for the ARM7TDMI processor online at no charge. This will enable design teams to gain instant access to ARM IP, allowing them to rapidly design and validate their system-on-chip (SoC) designs.

"Semiconductor designers at fabless start-up companies are looking to gain access to ARM® technology in the easiest, most flexible manner possible," said Neal Carney, VP Marketing at ARM. "The ARM DesignStart program successfully leverages the existing ARM Artisan channel, extending the reach of ARM microprocessor IP to a vast range of designers across the globe and in particular should accelerate time-to-market for start-up companies This program is the first innovative business model to result from the ARM acquisition of Artisan."

The ARM DesignStart program will help provide design teams with the ability to target emerging applications, improve the success of their projects and reduce development time and costs by gaining access to ARM technology in the earliest stages of their projects.

The new program significantly extends the existing ARM Foundry Program. The web-based design kits enable engineers to complete the design process all the way through chip-level verification. Once the design is finished and ready for fabrication, a single-use design license can be purchased to receive a full set of deliverables and thus enable tape out and manufacture at any of the supported foundries.

Availability

ARM7TDMI processors from the respective foundries are currently available as part of the DesignStart program in advanced 0.18-micron CMOS process technology.

About ARM

ARM designs the technology that lies at the heart of advanced digital products, from wireless, networking and consumer entertainment solutions to imaging, automotive, security and storage devices. ARM's comprehensive product offering includes 16/32-bit RISC microprocessors, data engines, 3D processors, digital libraries, embedded memories, peripherals, software and development tools, as well as analog functions and high-speed connectivity products.  Combined with the company's broad Partner community, they provide a total system solution that offers a fast, reliable path to market for leading electronics companies. More information on ARM is available at http://www.arm.com.

ENDS

ARM and ARM7TDMI are registered trademarks of ARM Limited. DesignStart is a registered trademark of ARM Limited.  Artisan Components and Artisan are registered trademarks of ARM Physical IP, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ARM. All other brands or product names are the property of their respective holders. "ARM" is used to represent ARM Holdings plc; its operating company ARM Limited; and the regional subsidiaries ARM INC.; ARM KK; ARM Korea Ltd.; ARM Taiwan; ARM France SAS; ARM Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.; ARM Belgium N.V.; AXYS Design Automation Inc.; AXYS GmbH; ARM Embedded Solutions Pvt. Ltd.; and ARM Physical IP, Inc.