微核芯的RISC-V哲学:打造无限可能的“万能积木”
半导体芯闻·2025-04-01 10:14

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the development and potential of the domestic open-source high-performance RISC-V processor core, "Xiangshan," highlighting its significance in the computing industry and its future applications in commercial sectors like servers and edge computing [1][2][4]. Group 1: Development of Xiangshan - The Xiangshan processor core, developed by the Institute of Computing Technology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Beijing Microkernel Technology Co., Ltd., is the world's first high-performance open-source RISC-V processor project [1]. - The first version, "Yanshihu," was launched in July 2021, followed by the second version, "Nanhu Architecture," in November 2023, with the third version, "Kunming Lake," currently under development [1]. - The project has attracted collaboration from domestic and international developers, enterprises, and universities, laying a foundation for future commercial applications despite its initial positioning as a research project [1]. Group 2: Microkernel's Background and Strategy - The Microkernel team has over 20 years of experience in CPU development, having participated in the R&D of the "Loongson CPU" and various high-performance processors [2]. - The decision to pursue the RISC-V architecture represents a strategic shift towards a more open and customizable computing solution, addressing the limitations of traditional architectures like X86 and ARM [4][6]. - The team aims to integrate high-performance CPU technology with industry applications, promoting an open and flexible innovation model [4]. Group 3: Market Positioning and Competitive Advantage - Microkernel's strategy focuses on high-performance computing, particularly in server and AI computing markets, as a means to establish RISC-V's foothold [6][7]. - The company has formed strategic partnerships with major internet companies and data processing enterprises, concentrating on storage servers and DPU fields to build a robust ecosystem [7]. - Customization and cost-effectiveness are highlighted as core competitive advantages, allowing RISC-V to achieve significant performance improvements through hardware acceleration [7][8]. Group 4: Customization and Commercial Value - The article emphasizes that open-source is just the starting point, with the real commercial value lying in deep customization to meet specific industry needs [9][10]. - Microkernel offers tailored services across hardware, software, and system levels, enabling precise alignment with various application requirements [10][12]. - The company adopts a "technical translation" approach, converting abstract customer needs into concrete technical blueprints, exemplified by their collaboration on a phased array radar chip [12]. Group 5: Future Prospects - The high-performance processor platform developed by Microkernel is designed to be adaptable across multiple fields, including robotics, edge servers, industrial control, and automotive electronics [14]. - RISC-V is viewed as a versatile technology platform with immense potential, capable of driving innovation when integrated with specific applications [14][15]. - With backing from top-tier investors, Microkernel is positioned for high-quality development and aims to redefine the technology ecosystem, believing RISC-V will play a crucial role in the future of technology [15].