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The MathWorks Introduces Link for TASKING

New Tool Enables Engineers Using Model-Based Design to Verify Embedded Code in Altium’s TASKING Compiler; Extends Processor-in-the-Loop Test to Infineon TriCore and other processors

NATICK, Mass. - (16 Oct 2006)

The MathWorks today announced Link for TASKING® , a new product that builds, validates, and verifies automatically generated code using MATLAB® and Simulink® with TASKING, Altium's compiler toolchain for embedded software development. Tightly integrated with MathWorks products for Model-Based Design , Link for TASKING enables engineers to generate algorithm code, libraries, makefiles, and test harnesses from a Simulink model and automatically load them into the TASKING Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for execution and analysis. This improved workflow minimizes the need for hand coding, which in turn decreases errors and shortens the time typically needed for on-target rapid prototyping and production code deployment, two factors that are critical to successful delivery of sophisticated electronic products in the automotive industry.   

Link for TASKING provides processor-in-the-loop (PIL) testing features that enable embedded object code to be cosimulated with Simulink. Once the code is loaded into the TASKING IDE or deployed to embedded hardware, it can be tested with the same executable specification used for code generation. This capability automates code verification and validation without requiring users to switch between tools. Unlike other PIL solutions that only support testing for one type of microprocessor, Link for TASKING enables PIL testing for many popular microprocessors supported by TASKING, including Infineon TriCore.  

"Our collaboration with The MathWorks enables TASKING users to leverage the benefits of Model-Based Design and have the option to verify code automatically or manually, resulting in improved productivity for users," said Harm-André Verhoef, product manager at Altium. "The release of Link for TASKING further demonstrates Altium's industry leadership with TASKING as the preferred IDE for automotive engineers."

"Automatic code generation has become one of the key factors to reduce time-to-market when powerful 32-bit microcontrollers, such as the TriCore-based products, are used. Infineon is committed to providing our customers with best-in-class development environments to reduce development cost and time," said Dr. Christopher Hegarty, vice president and general manager of microcontroller business unit at Infineon Technologies. "Since TASKING offers a widely used toolchain for Infineon C166 and TriCore microcontrollers, Link for TASKING is a significant milestone for automotive engineers. It enables engineers to analyze and debug code in a single, preexisting environment in which they can deploy C166- and TriCore-based solutions much faster than before."

With Link for TASKING, developers can use MATLAB to interactively analyze and debug code existing within the TASKING IDE. The code that interacts with MATLAB can be automatically generated or written by hand.

"Automotive engineering managers are embracing production code generation as a key technology for managing the unprecedented software growth occurring in today's ECU development programs," said Tom Erkkinen, embedded applications manager at The MathWorks. "Production engineers now want to deploy generated code to embedded processors and automatically test that the code executes with the same behavior as the original model. Link for TASKING addresses this need, and lets software engineers execute these tests within their familiar compiler and debugger environment."

Pricing and Availability

Link for TASKING is available immediately and compatible with a wide range of microprocessors supported by TASKING, including Infineon, STMicroelectronics, Renesas, ARM, and Freescale platforms. U.S. list prices start at $2,000. For further information, please visit the product Web site at www.mathworks.com/products/tasking.

About The MathWorks

The MathWorks is the leading developer of mathematical computing software. MATLAB, "the language of technical computing," is a programming environment for algorithm development, data analysis, visualization, and numeric computation. Simulink is a graphical environment for simulation and Model-Based Design of multidomain dynamic and embedded systems. Engineers and scientists worldwide rely on these product families to accelerate the pace of discovery, innovation, and development in automotive, aerospace, electronics, financial services, biotech-pharmaceutical, and other industries. MathWorks products are also fundamental teaching and research tools in the world's universities and learning institutions. Founded in 1984, The MathWorks employs more than 2,000 people in 15 countries, with headquarters in Natick, Massachusetts, USA. For additional information, visit www.mathworks.com.

MATLAB and Simulink are registered trademarks of The MathWorks, Inc. See www.mathworks.com/trademarks for a list of additional trademarks. Other product or brand names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

Press Contacts

Dave Smith The MathWorks, Inc. Tel: (508) 647-7427 Fax: (508) 647-7001 E-mail: dave.smith@mathworks.com

Sean Audet Text 100 Tel: (617) 723-1044 E-mail: mathworks@text100.com Web: www.text100.com