Seiko Epson developed what it claims is the world's first flexible 8bit asynchronous microprocessor, using low-temperature polysilicon thin-film transistors (LTPS-TFTs) on a plastic substrate. With energy consumption reduced by 70%, Epson is now researching potential applications for its invention.
The combination of Epson's original SUFTLA technology, LTPS-TFT technology, and asynchronous circuit design technology has made it possible for Epson to create stable displays that are large in size and use substrates that are both flexible and variable in shape. SUFTLA is an Epson-developed technique that makes it possible to transfer LTPS-TFT circuits onto flexible substrates.
Using the asynchronous circuit design technology, Epson has been able to make a stable 8bit microprocessor composed of 32,000 LTPS-TFTs, achieve energy consumption 70% lower than the synchronous design, and reduce electromagnetic radiation by 20dB.
