India unveils a homegrown dual-core 1GHz RISC-V processor, the DHRUV64 - theregister.com

Abstract

India has unveiled the DHRUV64, an indigenously developed dual-core processor utilizing the open-source RISC-V architecture. This chip operates at a clock speed of 1GHz, signaling a major step toward India’s goal of achieving technological self-reliance in silicon design. The introduction of the DHRUV64 contributes a new design to the growing global RISC-V ecosystem, positioning India as a key player in open-standard hardware innovation.

Report

Structured Report: DHRUV64 RISC-V Processor

Key Highlights

• Indigenous Development: The DHRUV64 is a homegrown processor developed in India, underscoring the nation's push for technological sovereignty.
• Processor Identification: The newly unveiled chip is officially named DHRUV64.
• Core Specifications: It is configured as a dual-core unit operating at a clock frequency of 1 GHz.
• Architecture: The processor is built upon the open-source RISC-V Instruction Set Architecture (ISA), favoring flexibility and freedom from proprietary licensing.

Technical Details

• Architecture: RISC-V ISA, chosen for its open nature and customizability.
• Configuration: Dual-core setup, indicating capabilities for parallel processing tasks common in embedded systems or low-to-moderate complexity computing.
• Operating Frequency: The chip achieves a speed of 1 GHz.
• Bit Width: The '64' suffix strongly suggests a 64-bit design, aligning with modern processor standards.

Implications

• Fostering Self-Reliance: The DHRUV64 represents a crucial milestone for India's 'Make in India' and technological self-reliance initiatives, particularly in critical defense and governmental infrastructure where domestic hardware control is essential.
• Expanding RISC-V Portfolio: The release of the DHRUV64 adds another substantial implementation to the global RISC-V ecosystem, driving wider adoption and maturation of the open ISA.
• Competitive Edge: A 1GHz dual-core RISC-V chip is positioned to compete in markets for embedded systems, IoT gateways, and educational platforms, challenging established proprietary architectures.
• Boosting Domestic R&D: The successful launch validates the quality and capability of India's domestic semiconductor research and development community.