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🔧 CAST, Inc. 8051 Microcontroller IP

CAST, Inc. 8051 Microcontroller IP

IP Cores and Subsystems for a Faster Time to Market.

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Overview

CAST, Inc. provides a family of 8051-compatible microcontroller cores that are among the most popular and widely-used 8-bit CPUs for embedded systems. These cores range from extremely small, low-power versions to high-performance variants that execute instructions much faster than the original 8051. They are a popular choice for control functions in larger SoCs or as the main processor in smaller embedded devices due to their small size, low power, and mature toolchain.

✨ Key Features

  • 8051/80251 instruction set compatible
  • Highly configurable (timers, UARTs, I/O ports)
  • From ultra-low power to high-performance versions
  • Optional peripherals and on-chip debug capabilities
  • Royalty-free licensing model

🎯 Key Differentiators

  • Broad range of 8051 cores from a trusted, long-standing vendor
  • Attractive royalty-free business model
  • Focus on quality and customer support

Unique Value: Provides a reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-use 8-bit microcontroller solution for embedded control tasks, backed by a mature ecosystem and a straightforward business model.

🎯 Use Cases (5)

System management and housekeeping controllers in large SoCs IoT sensor nodes Industrial control Consumer electronics remote controls Smart card and security applications

✅ Best For

  • Power management controller in a complex application processor
  • Main MCU in a smart home sensor
  • Keyboard and interface controller

💡 Check With Vendor

Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:

  • Applications requiring 32-bit or 64-bit processing power
  • High-performance signal processing or AI workloads

🏆 Alternatives

Dolphin Integration (now part of Silvaco) 8051 IP from other smaller vendors Low-end 32-bit cores (e.g., Arm Cortex-M0)

Offers a simpler, smaller, and often more cost-effective solution than 32-bit cores for basic control tasks, with a very attractive royalty-free licensing model.

💻 Platforms

API

✅ Offline Mode Available

🔌 Integrations

Keil, IAR, and other 8051 development tools FPGA and ASIC design flows AMBA APB/AHB bus interfaces

🛟 Support Options

  • ✓ Email Support
  • ✓ Phone Support
  • ✓ Dedicated Support (Licensing tier)

🔒 Compliance & Security

✓ ISO 9001

💰 Pricing

Contact for pricing

✓ 14-day free trial

Free tier: N/A

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