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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JAVA APPLETS EMPOWER INTERNET RECONFIGURABLE LOGIC
Java technology now delivers both software and hardware via the web
SAN JOSE, Calif., November 10, 1998 --
Xilinx, Inc., (NASDAQ:XLNX), continuing its partnership with Sun
Microsystems Inc. in utilizing Java technology for programmable logic
devices (PLDs), today announced the application of the Java API for
Boundary Scan to on-line reconfigurable products.
When first announced in September, this Java API was targeted
at applications to program, test and debug programmable logic devices in
manufacturing and product development environments. But the Java API for
Boundary Scan, when encapsulated in Java applets, can be transmitted over
the Internet to intelligent network appliances employing a Java Virtual
Machine. These Java applets carry logic, or virtual hardware, which
reconfigure the network appliance. With today's announcement, Java
applets can now transmit software and hardware across pervasive networks
around the world.
This technology will enable products for the twenty first century,
which can be field upgraded by an Internet Service Provider.
Applications include simple bug fixes, hardware enhancements, on-line high
definition digital TV protocol updates, or entirely new hardware and
software functionality delivered over the Internet.
"The Xilinx Internet Reconfigurable Logic initiative is a unique
combination of PLDs, Java and Internet technologies. We are excited
about our partnership with Sun because it will enable the development of
whole new product capabilities," said Rich Sevcik, senior vice president
of software, cores and support solutions at Xilinx.
"Sun is excited about the expanding role that Java technology
will play in the emerging area of Internet Reconfigurable Logic. By
combining this API with advanced FPGAs and the Internet, Xilinx achieves
safe, ubiquitous network delivery of new hardware, which will have a
profound effect on how new network products are designed in the future,"
said Mark Tolliver, president of Sun's Consumer and Embedded Group.
The Java API for Boundary Scan will be defined by Sun's open process in
which Xilinx will lead the expert group. This open process, under Sun's
guidance, ensures the API will accommodate a variety of devices from
different vendors, and that all platforms are supported -- from small,
resource limited embedded processors to the most complex automated test
equipment. The unique "write once, run anywhere" capability eliminates the
need for multiple translations and compilations across different platforms
and devices, guaranteeing that Java will become the defacto standard for
easily deploying boundary scan into a myriad of environments.
This open, non-proprietary technology is capable of programming PLD
devices from Actel, Altera, Atmel, Cypress, Gatefield, Lattice,
Lucent, Philips, Vantis, Quicklogic, Waferscale, Xilinx or any other
manufacturer using the IEEE 1149.1 JTAG port. This API also enables other
logic, memory, and MPU/DSP devices to be programmed, debugged and tested
using Java as the interface, opening up a host of Internet and network
enabled components and systems. Major users such as Cabletron
Systems and CAE Electronics, and third party JTAG system suppliers such as
ASSET InterTech, Intelltech and Corelis, have endorsed the Java API
for Boundary Scan.
Xilinx is the leading innovator of complete programmable logic
solutions, including advanced integrated circuits, software design tools,
predefined system functions delivered as cores, and unparalleled field
engineering support. Founded in 1984 and headquartered in San Jose,
Calif., Xilinx invented the field programmable gate array (FPGA) and
commands more than half of the world market for these devices today.
Xilinx solutions enable customers to reduce significantly the time
required to develop products for the computer, peripheral,
telecommunications, networking, industrial control, instrumentation,
high-reliability/military, and consumer markets. For more information,
visit the Xilinx web site at http://www.xilinx.com/index.shtml.
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Xilinx is a registered trademark of Xilinx, Inc. Other
brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective owners.
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