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The Concept

The Propeller product (hardware, firmware and software) was designed with a combination of many well-known and brand-new concepts in mind.  To this end, we designed the hardware, firmware, software and the two built-in programming languages (Spin and Propeller Assembly) completely from scratch to give users the most direct and efficient control over the Propeller device.

To every extent possible, we designed the Propeller without compromise and without hesitating to throw away concepts that slow down or impede progress. For a more in-depth explanation of this, see Why the Propeller Works.

To fully understand and utilize the Propeller, it is best that you approach it with an open mind.  Be careful not to let legacy concepts or techniques prevent you from experiencing the advantages of the Propeller chip.  Some legacy concepts really hinder real-time processing environments and bring turmoil to those who rely on them.

For example, using interrupts to handle asynchronous events is a common industry practice. While it's true that interrupts are a proven solution, they really only exist to solve a severe lack of processing power. However, the Propeller has eight (8) processors! There's no need for interrupts when you can simply assign a processor to an individual asynchronous event.

The Propeller can simultaneously handle eight different asynchronous events all without any of the typical jittery response-time witnessed on systems with too few processors and too many interrupts. In addition, experience has proven that applying dedicated processors to such tasks naturally leads to more reliable and swiftly-built systems. Though interrupts used to be a great solution, now it's clear they are an unfortunate speed bump slowing down progress. Say "no" to interrupts!

Propeller Help Version 1.1

Copyright © Parallax Inc.

5/13/2009