ARM launches Secure file Set accelerated Cortex-R5 processor for automotive, medical and industrial applications

     ARM has introduced a complete set of security files for Cortex-R5 processors to accelerate the adoption of Cortex-R5 processors for safety-critical applications. This is a significant shift for industries including automotive, medical and industrial applications, which will be able to deploy advanced systems in a more cost-effective manner. The Cortex-R5 is the first processor in the ARM processor family to offer a security file set that chip partners can use to prove their products are fully compliant with the new functional safety standards.

     Noel Hurley, general manager of ARM's processor Division, said: "Functional safety is becoming increasingly important in markets such as automotive, medical and industrial applications, and ARM will continue to support partners interested in reaching these high-growth areas. The Cortex-R5 processor has rich fault detection and control capabilities and a new general security file set to help developers use it in a wide range of security applications. Similar support will be available across many of ARM's processor products in the future."

     Because system-on-chip (SoC) developers now have access to more information necessary for multi-function security through the security file set, system developers can be more confident in adopting Cortex-R5 processors in security-related applications. In automotive applications, including powertrain and Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the ISO 26262-compliant Cortex-R5 core is designed to reduce the need for overall components. This speeds up the design cycle, reduces manufacturing and overall system costs, and reduces power consumption and vehicle emissions.

     In addition, because industrial safety-related systems must comply with IEC 61508, the Cortex-R5 safety documentation set also provides support for certification. The Common security file set also makes Cortex-R5 suitable for a variety of other market applications, such as the medical field, which must comply with a number of different standards and must have a common base solution.

     On the other hand, the industry-standard ARM compiler is now TUV SUD certified, so there is no need for additional compliance testing for the tool suite to enable safety-related software development to be certified to ISO 26262 ASIL D and IEC 61508 SIL 3. TUV certification also complements the ARM compiler Certification suite, which includes safety manuals, development process files, test reports, and defect reports.

     The Cortex-R5 is an advanced and cost-effective real-time processor for a wide range of embedded applications. The processor has been widely adopted by various chip manufacturers to develop application-specific SOCs and general-purpose microcontrollers.