NetLogic unveils new three-chip set

SAN JOSE: Post-acquisition of network processor vendor RMI Corp in June 2009, NetLogic Microsystems has brought on its first product. The new three chip set, NLX321103A, is has been rolled out so as to handle a broad range of packet-processing functions at speeds up to 40 Gbits/second.

The chips that will be brought to the marketplace during autumn would be the to support a unified software environment across NetLogic and RMI components.

According to reports, the new NLX321103A chip set has been brought about by NetLogic in a bid to aid itself expand customer base. The company has been seeing added rivalry from players such as Cavium Networks and Freescale Semiconductor. 

Cavium has arrayed its new 32-core processor, while Freescale has brought on to the racks 64-bit Power-based chips. As per an EETimes report, the NLX321103A houses RMI's eight-core, quad-threaded XLP processor linked over Interlaken and Xaui interconnects with two existing NetLogic parts.

While the NL11k handles Layer 2-4 flow classification, the NETL7 inspects Layer 7 information based on Perl Compatible Regular Expression signatures. The XLP and NL11k are made in a TSMC 40nm process, the report added.

The three chips in the single set can put all packet processing functions on a single board. It would have the capabilities to handle a wide variety of security, quality-of-service and forwarding functions.