Analog Devices Inc. ADSP-21573BBCZ-4

Overview

ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 from Analog Devices is a dual-core SHARC+ DSP with integrated Arm Cortex-A5 processor in 400-ball CSP_BGA package, operating at up to 500 MHz per SHARC+ core and 500 MHz for the Arm core. It delivers 384 kB L1 SRAM per SHARC+ core, 256 kB L2 cache, 1 MB L2 SRAM with ECC, and supports 32-/40-/64-bit floating-point arithmetic - optimized for high-performance automotive audio processing, real-time control, and multi-channel signal analysis.

For engineers reviewing the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 datasheet, ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 pinout, ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 application, or ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 equivalent, key selection considerations include dual-core SHARC+ clock speed (500 MHz), Arm Cortex-A5 integration, 400-ball CSP_BGA mechanical compatibility, AEC-Q100 qualification, and support for DDR3L/DDR2/LPDDR1 memory interfaces.

Technical Context

The ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 implements a heterogeneous dual-domain architecture: two SHARC+ SIMD cores execute deterministic, low-latency floating-point signal processing (FIR/IIR offload, ASRC, S/PDIF), while the Arm Cortex-A5 handles OS-based tasks, connectivity, and system management. The cores share a coherent L2 cache and access unified L2 SRAM via a crossbar DMA subsystem.

Its system infrastructure includes TrustZone-enabled security partitioning, cryptographic hardware accelerators, safety-critical fault management (watchdogs, TMU, CRC), and automotive-grade thermal monitoring. Peripherals include dual CAN 2.0 controllers, three UARTs, quad SPI, two I2C, USB 2.0 HS, EMAC, SDIO/eMMC, and an 8-channel 12-bit HADC - all mapped to 92 GPIO + 20 DAI pins in the 400-ball CSP_BGA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 uses a 17 mm × 17 mm, 400-ball CSP_BGA package with 0.8 mm ball pitch, designed for automotive and industrial PCB layouts requiring thermal reliability and high I/O density. Pin assignments follow Analog Devices' standardized 400-ball CSP_BGA layout (Rev. C), supporting full peripheral multiplexing across GPIO, DAI, and memory interface signals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar heterogeneous DSP + application processor applications.

Compared with ADSP-SC573BBCZ-4, the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 provides identical signal processing capability and pin compatibility but omits automotive qualification documentation and test reporting - making it suitable for industrial prototyping and non-automotive volume production. Versus TDA4VM, it delivers superior deterministic latency, native floating-point audio math, and backward compatibility with SHARC toolchains.

Availability

ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, professional audio equipment, industrial motor drives, and medical imaging systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and DSP technology, headquartered in Wilmington, MA, with design centers worldwide and over 50 years of semiconductor innovation.

The ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 belongs to the SHARC+ family - engineered for deterministic, high-throughput floating-point signal processing in safety-critical and latency-sensitive applications such as automotive audio, industrial automation, and professional audio infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of each SHARC+ core in the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4?

The ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 supports up to 500 MHz per SHARC+ core, confirmed in Table 2 of the Rev. C datasheet. This frequency is achievable under specified VDD_INT (1.0 V) and thermal conditions (≤+105°C ambient). The Arm Cortex-A5 core also operates at 500 MHz, enabling balanced compute load distribution between DSP and application domains.

Does the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 support AEC-Q100 qualification?

No - the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 is the industrial variant. Its automotive counterpart is the ADSP-SC573BBCZ-4, which is AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualified. The ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 shares identical silicon and electrical specifications but lacks the extended automotive test reporting and qualification documentation required for automotive production release.

What memory interfaces does the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 support for external storage?

The ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 integrates a 16-bit DDR3L/DDR2/LPDDR1 SDRAM controller supporting 1.5 V DDR3L devices, as stated in the "ADDITIONAL FEATURES" section and Table 2. It does not support LPDDR2, LPDDR3, DDR4, or PCIe-based memory. External flash is accessed via quad SPI or eMMC interfaces.

How many CAN 2.0 controllers are integrated into the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4?

The ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 includes two CAN 2.0 controllers, as documented in the "PERIPHERALS" block diagram (Page 2), Table 1 ("Common Product Features"), and Table 2. Both controllers support standard and extended frame formats and are independently configurable for automotive body control or powertrain diagnostics.

Is the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 pin-compatible with other members of the ADSP-2157x family?

Yes - the ADSP-21573BBCZ-4 uses the same 400-ball CSP_BGA package and pinout as ADSP-21571BBCZ-4 and ADSP-SC573BBCZ-4, per the "400-Ball CSP_BGA Signal Descriptions" section (Page 28) and Table 2. Differences are limited to internal configuration (e.g., SHARC+ core count, DDR controller presence) and qualification level - not physical or electrical pin mapping.