Newsgroups: comp.sys.transputer
From: dbuckley@esl.tex.com (David Buckley)
Subject: Transputer???
Organization: Electric Solutions Ltd
Date: Sun, 25 May 97 10:43:25  GMT
Message-ID: <864582205snx@esl.tex.com>

I have a project I'm working on which I think may benefit from a
transputer.  I've never worked on the archetecture before, the nearest
I've been is a couple of old data books.  However I think the transputer
will be a good choice because I believe it's very good at context
switching, and my application is basically doing data compression in
real time, handling UARTS etc.  It's all a bit fast for my standard
workhorse, the 80188.

Even the bottom end transputer is several times quicker than the 80188,
and will comfortably handle the data rate.  So, my plot was to find a
CSA kit (I know they've gone, but never mind), target the T400, develop
(in C) on that, and then move to the embedded system.

I'm not looking to run at a monster clock rate, as the PCB will only be
double sided, and I'm only moderately skilled, and don't fancy trying
to make a 200MHz $5 chip work - nor to solder a 208 quad pack!

As well as the transputer, there will be an 80188 with ROM, so that can
store the transputer code as well as it's own, and the download pattern
for the xilinx, which can do any stuff left over that the T400 needs.

Anyway, I have some opening questions:

1) Am I mad?  Should I forget the transputer and use [xxx]??  If so,
bear in mind that I want to develop in C (or assembler) with an
*affordable* development system, and something in a PLCC (no bigger than
84) would be nice.

2) Whats the current pricing and availability of transputers like?  I'd
like some advance info before I try and find a suitable distributer.

I have had a good look around www.st.com.  www.inmos.co.uk appears dead.


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David Buckley of Electric Solutions Ltd | Email: dbuckley@esl.tex.com
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