Austriamicrosystems Chooses ARM Cortex-M0 Processor For Mixed Signal Applications

Leading analog IC designer adopts ultra low power ARM Cortex-M0 processor

CAMBRIDGE, UK - OCT 16, 2009 - ARM [(LSE: ARM); (Nasdaq: ARMH)] have announced that austriamicrosystems, a leading global designer and manufacturer of high performance analog ICs for automotive, communication, industry and medical applications, has licensed the ARM® Cortex™-M0  processor for future custom ASIC solutions.

austriamicrosystems supplies ICs to a broad range of applications including automotive electronic stability programs (ESP), battery management and keyless go systems as well as mobile phones, portable audio/ video players, industrial sensor interfaces and a wide range of other applications.

“The ultra low power and gate count of the Cortex-M0 processor, combined with its 32-bit performance efficiency, makes it an ideal choice for analog mixed signal sensor applications,” said Mario Manninger, Director of Engineering, Consumer & Communications Business Unit, austriamicrosystems. “This upgrade from our previous 8051-based solutions will enable us to deliver a competitive advantage in the energy efficiency and cost effectiveness of our products.”

“Analog and mixed signal applications represent a relatively new market for ARM, so it is very encouraging that leading device designers like austriamicrosystems are adopting the Cortex-M0 processor for their future designs,” said Eric Schorn, VP marketing, Processor Division, ARM. “The suitability of the Cortex-M0 processor for these applications, combined with the broad ecosystem of silicon, tools, software and middleware vendors, makes it an ideal choice for companies who are looking to move on from 8 or 16-bit technology to achieve higher performance without sacrificing area or low power consumption.”

The Cortex-M0 processor is the lowest power and smallest 32-bit ARM processor. It offers an optimal blend of ultra low-power, energy-efficiency and low gate count, with binary upwards compatibility with the higher performance ARM Cortex-M3 processor. This makes it an ideal next step for embedded applications that outgrow legacy 8-bit microcontrollers, skipping the need for 16-bit devices.

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 32-bit RISC microprocessors, graphics processors, video engines, enabling software, cell libraries, embedded memories, high-speed connectivity products, peripherals and development tools. Combined with comprehensive design services, training, support and maintenance, and 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

About Austriamicrosystems

austriamicrosystems is a leading designer and manufacturer of high performance analog ICs, combining more than 27 years of analog design capabilities and system know-how with its own state-of-the-art manufacturing and test facilities. austriamicrosystems leverages its expertise in low power and high accuracy to provide industry-leading customized and standard analog products. Operating worldwide with more than 1,000 employees, austriamicrosystems focuses on the areas of power management, sensors & sensor interfaces and mobile infotainment in its markets Communications, Industry & Medical and Automotive, complemented by its Full Service Foundry activities. austriamicrosystems is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange in Zurich (ticker symbol: AMS).