Motorola offers new market-specific microcode RAM packages for QUICC communications controller; packages provide increased functionality for applications including ATM, ISDN and internetworking.

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 28, 1994--Motorola's Microprocessor and Memory Technologies Group Monday announced the availability of six protocol-assist microcode Random Access Memory (RAM) packages for the 68360 Quad Integrated Communications Controller (QUICC).

The microcode packages enable the QUICC RISC communications engine to handle various protocol feature sets and to address specific requirements of markets including Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), internetworking, industrial control and telecommunications.

Since its introduction in 1993, QUICC has become a widely accepted solution for high-performance embedded control communications applications, due to its success in combining high levels of performance, integration and flexibility.

A special version of the QUICC, the 68EN360, which integrates Ethernet local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) functionality, has also found great success in the fast-growing internetworking/remote access market.

Motorola's microcode RAM packages will enhance the variability and performance of both versions of the QUICC across multiple applications by addressing the specific communications protocol needs of individual markets.

QUICC's on-board RISC processor can execute microcode functions from the internal dual-port RAM, enabling it to enhance existing protocols or implement additional protocols as opportunities arise. Customers may use the RAM microcodes in an object-code format and download them to the QUICC dual-port RAM during system initialization.

"Motorola is excited to deliver QUICC software packages specially customized for distinct markets," said Trey Oprendek, marketing manager, Motorola Data Communications Operation. "We are committed to the markets currently served by QUICC and will continue to supply unique solutions to meet our customers' needs."

"Motorola's highly integrated QUICC processor has facilitated the development and success of the CISCO 1000 series of remote access products," said Troy Trenchard, low-end product manager, Cisco Systems. "The Ethernet filtering microcode has not only increased the performance of our product, but has also reduced the system design costs and the cost to the end user."

Microcode RAM Packages

ATOM 1 -- The ATOM 1 provides physical layer ATM functions by converting one or more of the QUICC's Serial Communications Controllers (SCCs) into an ATM cell transmitter and receiver. This microcode package is intended for remote bridging over T1/E1 lines, specifically for Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy (PDH) and Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) E1/DS1 ATM applications.

MGCI -- The Multiple General Circuit Interface Microcode (MGCI) allows the QUICC to handle connections over two basic rate ISDN links using its Serial Management Controllers (SMCs). Intended for ISDN line cards and video servers, the MGCI package can terminate the GCI C/I and monitor channels from up to 16 ISDN basic rate channels.

Asynchronous HDLC -- The Asynchronous High-Level Data Link Control microcode (HDLC) uses HDLC-like framing with Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) characters and provides the physical layer for the Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP). PPP is designed for inter-router communications and for dial-up links to networks. The Asynchronous HDLC package allows frames to be manipulated in the same way as synchronous HDLC frames.

Ethernet Filtering -- Designed for bridging applications, the Ethernet Filtering microcode changes the filtering algorithm to allow the perfect acceptance and rejection of frames with addresses matching entries in a table. This microcode performs the same function as a 24-entry CAM. The package is for use exclusively with the QUICC 68EN360.

Profibus --The Profibus microcode is an industrial control protocol based on a multidrop UART bus that uses token passing and framing. The package allows Profibus data to be controlled on a frame basis rather than on a per-character basis.

SS7 -- Signaling System Number 7 is a telecommunications management protocol used in switching networks. The message transfer part of the SS7 microcode package incorporates the physical, data link and network layer functions of the SS7 protocol and includes unique functions that are difficult to implement using an unaltered HDLC controller. The SS7 package implements the two lowest layers of the SS7 protocol stack.

Price and Availability

Each microcode software package is currently available direct from Motorola for a one-time fee of $2,000. The packages do not require licenses, object code redistribution fees or special masks to attain their functionality. The microcode RAM packages come in diskette form.

Having 1993 worldwide sales of $5.7 billion, Motorola's Semiconductor Products Sector is the largest U.S.-based broad line supplier of semiconductors, with a balanced portfolio of more than 50,000 devices.

Motorola is one of the world's leading providers of wireless communications, semiconductors, and advanced electronic systems and services. Major equipment businesses include cellular telephone, two-way radio, paging and data communications, automotive, defense and space electronics and computers. Communication devices, computers and millions of consumer products are powered by Motorola semiconductors. Motorola's 1993 sales were $17 billion.

CONTACT: Cunningham Communication Inc.

              Heather Acheson, 408/982-0400
              Motorola Data Communications Operation
              Trey Oprendek, 512/891-3434