• System-on-a-chip (SoC) processors are especially attractive
for new embedded systems. The SoC processor is comprised of a
CPU core with built-in peripheral modules, such as a
programmable general-purpose timer, programmable interrupt
controller, DMA controller, and possibly Ethernet interfaces.
• Such a self-contained design allows these embedded processors
to be used to build a variety of embedded applications without
needing additional external peripheral devices, again reducing the
overall cost and size of the final product.