Which Microprocessor to use?
I am an avid fan of the Arduino, however I just recently came across a Propeller MCU, which seems to have much better functionality. Here are some pros and cons, in my view:
Arduino Pros:
- Simple, C language programming.
- Lower Power Consumption ( will be an issue when going completely autonomous)
- Very broad documentation and community base.
- Price & Availability ( I already have one, but I'm looking to get one of the new Megas)
Arduino Cons:
- 16 Mhz clock
- Only one core ( can't multi-task, this is a real issue)
- Any add-ons to actual functionality are expensive and separate
Propeller Pros:
- 8 Cores!! Thats right, 8 cores. nuff said for multi-tasking.
- Up to 80 Mhz (with 5 Mhz crystal) That's a lot more processing power than the Arduino.
- Completely compatible with any sensor that works with the 'Duino
- (Semi-Pro) Price, $50.
- Comes with VGA-Out and SD-Card slot on board!
- 32-bit processing, as opposed to 'Duino's 8-bit
Propeller Cons:
- I've never programmed in Propeller, so it might take a little
- Not AS MUCH documentation, but still pretty good.
- Only 32 I/O, While the Mega can get up to 64 I/O
An Addon: I just read news that said there is a Propeller II coming out soon in 2011, it includes:
- Up to 160 Mhz Clock
- 92 I/O, all with ADC and DAC, Pull-up/Push-down resistors, amond other things.
Seems like it would be interesting to wait a little.
No comments:
Post a Comment