Overview ARM7

this generation introduced thumb 16-bit instruction set providing improved code density compared previous designs. used arm7 designs implement armv4t architecture, implement armv3 or armv5tej. arm7tdmi has 37 registers (31 gpr , 6 spr). these designs use von neumann architecture, few versions comprising cache not separate data , instruction caches.

some arm7 cores obsolete. 1 historically significant model, arm7di notable having introduced jtag based on-chip debugging; preceding arm6 cores did not support it. d represented jtag tap debugging; denoted icebreaker debug module supporting hardware breakpoints , watchpoints, , letting system stalled debugging. subsequent cores included , enhanced support.

it versatile processor designed mobile devices , other low power electronics. processor architecture capable of 130 mips on typical 0.13 µm process. arm7tdmi processor core implements arm architecture v4t. processor supports both 32-bit , 16-bit instructions via arm , thumb instruction sets.

arm licenses processor various semiconductor companies, design full chips based on arm processor architecture.

arm license

arm holdings neither manufactures nor sells cpu devices based on own designs, rather licenses processor architecture interested parties. arm offers variety of licensing terms, varying in cost , deliverables. licensees, arm provides integratable hardware description of arm core, complete software development toolset , right sell manufactured silicon containing arm cpu.

silicon customization

integrated device manufacturers (idm) receive arm processor ip synthesizable rtl (written in verilog). in form, have ability perform architectural level optimizations , extensions. allows manufacturer achieve custom design goals, such higher clock speed, low power consumption, instruction set extensions, optimizations size, debug support, etc. determine components have been included in particular arm cpu chip, consult manufacturer datasheet , related documentation.