68030 vs. 68EC020
What's the Difference?
The 68030 and 68EC020 are both members of the Motorola 68000 series of microprocessors, with the 68030 being a higher-end version compared to the 68EC020. The 68030 features a built-in memory management unit, which allows for better memory management and multitasking capabilities. It also has a larger on-chip cache and faster clock speeds, making it more suitable for high-performance applications. On the other hand, the 68EC020 is a cost-reduced version of the 68020, lacking the built-in memory management unit and with a smaller on-chip cache. It is more suitable for lower-cost applications where performance is not as critical.
Comparison
| Attribute | 68030 | 68EC020 |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | 32-bit | 32-bit |
| Instruction Set | 680x0 | 680x0 |
| Cache | 8 KB | 8 KB |
| Performance | 20-25 MIPS | 15-20 MIPS |
| Address Bus | 32-bit | 32-bit |
Further Detail
Introduction
When it comes to choosing a processor for your computer system, there are many factors to consider. Two popular choices in the 68k family of processors are the 68030 and the 68EC020. Both processors have their own unique attributes that make them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will compare the key features of these two processors to help you make an informed decision.
Performance
The 68030 processor is a high-performance chip that was introduced by Motorola in 1987. It features a 32-bit architecture and a clock speed of up to 33 MHz. The 68030 also includes an integrated memory management unit (MMU) and a built-in floating-point unit (FPU), which allows for faster mathematical calculations. On the other hand, the 68EC020 is a budget version of the 68020 processor, with a clock speed of up to 33 MHz and no FPU. While the 68EC020 is less powerful than the 68030, it is still a capable processor for many applications.
Compatibility
One of the key differences between the 68030 and the 68EC020 is their compatibility with existing software and hardware. The 68030 is fully compatible with software written for the 68000 and 68020 processors, making it a popular choice for upgrading older systems. In contrast, the 68EC020 is not fully compatible with software that relies on the FPU, as it lacks this feature. This can be a limitation for some applications that require floating-point calculations.
Power Consumption
Another important factor to consider when choosing a processor is power consumption. The 68030 processor is known for its high power consumption, which can be a concern for systems that require low energy usage. In comparison, the 68EC020 is more energy-efficient, making it a better choice for battery-powered devices or systems with limited power capabilities. This difference in power consumption can be a deciding factor for some applications.
Cost
Cost is always a consideration when choosing a processor for a computer system. The 68030 processor is typically more expensive than the 68EC020, due to its higher performance and additional features such as the FPU. For budget-conscious consumers or applications that do not require the extra power of the 68030, the 68EC020 can be a more cost-effective option. However, it is important to weigh the cost against the performance requirements of your specific application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the 68030 and the 68EC020 processors have their own unique attributes that make them suitable for different applications. The 68030 is a high-performance chip with integrated features such as an MMU and FPU, making it a powerful choice for demanding applications. On the other hand, the 68EC020 is a budget-friendly option that is still capable of handling many tasks, albeit without the FPU. When choosing between these two processors, it is important to consider factors such as performance, compatibility, power consumption, and cost to determine which one best suits your needs.
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