Multiple cores bring multiple challenges

Rapid adoption of dual-core CPUs requires change in areas such as software, hardware, power consumption, and heat dissipation.

Most microcontrollers being designed into today's vehicles use conventional single-core architectures, but the dual-core devices that dominate the PC world are rapidly becoming the standard approach. Powertrain and safety are leading the way, but other areas are beginning their transition.

“Multi cores are the de facto design standard for next-generation products in powertrain,” said Kent Helfrich, Director of Electronics Integration and Software at General Motors. “For the last decade, we've had multiprocessor designs in engine-control modules; now we're combining them onto one chip.”