The CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G is a high-performance embedded processor developed by Cavium Networks, now a part of Marvell Technology Group. This processor is part of the OCTEON family, designed to meet the demanding requirements of networking, security, and storage applications. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the features, specifications, applications, and comparisons of the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G, providing a detailed understanding of its capabilities and benefits.
Overview of Cavium Networks and Marvell Technology Group
Cavium Networks was a leading provider of semiconductor products that enabled intelligent processing for networking, communications, and security applications. In 2018, Marvell Technology Group acquired Cavium, expanding its portfolio to include Cavium's extensive range of processors and system-on-chip (SoC) solutions. This acquisition allowed Marvell to strengthen its position in the semiconductor industry, offering advanced solutions for data infrastructure.
Introduction to the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G
The CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G is a member of the OCTEON CN50XX series, which comprises single and dual-core MIPS64 processors. These processors are optimized for low power consumption while delivering high performance, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including routers, switches, security appliances, and storage devices.
The OCTEON CN50XX single and dual core MIPS64 processor family targets intelligent broadband access, storage, SMB and wireless applications in next-generation equipment from 100 Mbps to 2 Gbps performance. This cost-effective family consists of four different software-compatible processors, each with one or two cnMIPS64 cores on a single chip.
These processors integrate next-generation I/Os including Gigabit Ethernet and USB 2.0, along with the most advanced security, QoS and application hardware acceleration to deliver greater than three times the performance, power and real estate over alternative solutions. The CN50XX processors are fully hardware and software compatible with the OCTEON CN30XX family of products.
OCTEON Plus CN50XX Single and Dual Core MIPS64 Embedded Processors FEATURES
Custom CPU core optimized for networking
• 1-2 cnMIPS™ CPU cores (MIPS64/32 compatible) with MMU
• Available in 300 MHz to 700 MHz versions
• OCTEON Plus enhanced MIPS64 integer (Release2) instruction set
• Dual-issue, five-stage pipeline, optimized latencies
• Auto instruction pre-fetching and advanced data pre-fetching features to minimize memory stalls
High-performance coherent memory subsystem
• 128KB ECC protected L2 cache with locking, partitioning features for optimal performance
• Integrated mainstream 16 - 32-bit DDR2 memory controller with ECC, up to DDR2-667
Integrated coprocessors for application acceleration
• Packet I/O processing, QoS, TCP acceleration
• Support for IPsec, SSL, DH, SRTP, WLAN security, DES, 3DES, AES (up to 256-bit including GCM), SHA1, SHA-2 up to SHA-512, RSA, ECC, KASUMI, and Data-at-rest security (AES-XTS)
Integrated high-performance networking interfaces
• Up to 3 configurable Ethernet I/Os - 3x 10/100/1000 Ethernet MACs (RGMII; GMII or MII)
• Integrated 32-bit, 66 MHz PCI host or slave
• TDM/PCM interface for glueless VoIP support
• USB 2.0, high-speed (480 Mbps), host with integrated PHY
Small footprint package:
• 564 HSBGA package - compatible with OCTEON CN30XX
single core processors
CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G Key Features and Specifications
The CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G boasts several features that contribute to its versatility and performance:
• Processor Cores: Single-core MIPS64 processor operating at 300 MHz.
• Package: 564-pin HSBGA (Heat Sink Ball Grid Array) package.
• Interfaces:
1. PCI-X: 64-bit, 133 MHz, supporting both master and slave modes.
2. PCI: 32-bit and 64-bit, up to 66 MHz, supporting both master and slave modes.
• Security Features:
1. Bulk Data Encryption: Capable of processing 50 Mbps to 1 Gbps IPsec packet processing, including bulk data encryption and hashing.
2. Public Key Processor: Supports 500 to 12K 180-bit Diffie-Hellman operations per second and 1K to 7K 1024-bit RSA operations per second.
3. Multi-Algorithm Support: Includes RSA, Diffie-Hellman, DES/3DES, AES, ARC4, MD5, SHA-1, HMAC-MD5, and HMAC-SHA-1.
• Random Number Generator: On-chip true random number generator for enhanced security.
• Power Consumption: Typical power consumption is approximately 1.0W.
These features make the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G a robust solution for applications requiring secure data processing and efficient performance.
Applications of the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G
The versatility of the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G allows it to be utilized in various applications:
• Networking Equipment: Ideal for routers and switches that require high-speed data processing and secure communications.
• Security Appliances: Suitable for VPN gateways and firewall devices, providing hardware-accelerated encryption and decryption for secure data transmission.
• Storage Devices: Applicable in storage area networks (SANs) and network-attached storage (NAS) systems, offering efficient data handling and security features.
• Wireless Infrastructure: Supports 802.11 gateways with AES acceleration, enhancing the performance and security of wireless networks.
Comparison with Other OCTEON Processors
To understand the positioning of the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G within the OCTEON family, let's compare it with other processors in the series:
| Feature | CN5010-300BG564-SCP-G | CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G | CN5020-500BG564-SCP-G | CN5020-700BG564-SCP-G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor Cores | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Core Frequency | 300 MHz | 300 MHz | 500 MHz | 700 MHz |
| Package | 564-pin HSBGA | 564-pin HSBGA | 564-pin HSBGA | 564-pin HSBGA |
| PCI-X Interface | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| PCI Interface | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bulk Data Encryption | Up to 500 Mbps | Up to 1 Gbps | Up to 1 Gbps | Up to 1 Gbps |
| Public Key Operations | Up to 6K ops/sec | Up to 12K ops/sec | Up to 12K ops/sec | Up to 12K ops/sec |
| Typical Power Consumption | ~0.8W | ~1.0W | ~1.2W | ~1.5W |
Note: The above specifications are based on typical values and may vary depending on specific configurations and operating conditions.
From the comparison, it's evident that the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G offers a balanced performance with moderate power consumption, making it suitable for applications that require efficient processing without excessive energy demands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G and CN5020-500BG564-SCP-G?
A1: The primary difference lies in the core frequency. The CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G operates at 300 MHz, while the CN5020-500BG564-SCP-G operates at 500 MHz. This increase in frequency translates to higher processing performance in the CN5020-500BG564-SCP-G.
Q2: What type of applications benefit the most from using the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G?
A2: The CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G is ideal for networking equipment, security appliances, storage systems, and wireless infrastructure. Its hardware-accelerated encryption and efficient data processing capabilities make it a strong choice for VPN gateways, firewalls, routers, and NAS devices.
Q3: How does the power consumption of the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G compare to other OCTEON processors?
A3: The CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G has a typical power consumption of approximately 1.0W, making it a power-efficient choice compared to higher-frequency models like the CN5020-700BG564-SCP-G, which consumes around 1.5W. This balance of performance and energy efficiency makes it suitable for embedded and low-power applications.
Q4: Does the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G support multiple encryption standards?
A4: Yes, this processor supports a wide range of encryption and security algorithms, including RSA, Diffie-Hellman, AES, DES/3DES, ARC4, MD5, SHA-1, HMAC-MD5, and HMAC-SHA-1. These features make it highly secure and suitable for data protection in networking and storage applications.
Q5: What are the key differences between Cavium Networks and Marvell's branding for this processor?
A5: Cavium Networks originally developed the CN5020-300BG564-SCP-G under its OCTEON product line. After Marvell acquired Cavium, the processor continued to be marketed and supported under Marvell’s portfolio. While the branding changed, the processor’s specifications, performance, and intended applications remained the same.
Written by Icey Ye from AIChipLink.
AIChipLink, one of the fastest-growing global independent electronic component distributors in the world, offers millions of products from thousands of manufacturers. Whether you need assistance finding the right part or electronic components manufacturers for your design, you can contact us via phone, chat or e-mail. Our support team will answer your inquiries within 24 hours.
