Overview
We are developing AUTOSAR MCAL software. The MCAL software runs on each device in the sophisticated and complex E/E architecture, each having a fundamental role in automotive control and communication. The MCAL software contributes to the "realization of the driving, turning, stopping, and connectivity required for automobiles" and to the "realization of a safe and convenient society".
Background
MCAL (MicroController Abstraction Layer) is a software module for directly accessing and controlling peripheral functions built into the microcontroller/SoCs and external devices mapped to memory. For example, there are modules for setting clocks, timers, and ports, and modules for controlling data communication via Ethernet and CAN. MCAL APIs are standardized by AUTOSAR (AUTomotive Open System Architecture), a global partnership for the automotive industry, so that the upper software layer is not dependent on the microcontroller/SoC itself. This means that customers can reuse the upper software by using AUTOSAR MCAL. Renesas has not only been contributing to standardization activities as a premium member of the AUTOSAR Partnership since 2004, but also developing and providing MCAL software that runs on Renesas' automotive microcontrollers/SoC, RH850 and R-Car. In particular, the RH850 and its MCAL software are used for many years by many customers around the world.
Examples of our challenges
Since Renesas is a global semiconductor manufacturer, our MCAL software developers form a team with members not only in Japan but also in Vietnam, India, and Europe, and collaborate with hardware developers to develop optimized software for our automotive microcontroller/SoCs. As AUTOSAR MCAL experts, we also support our customers to solve their problems and propose solutions. In addition, we review and provide improvement feedback on new automotive microcontroller/SoC concepts and specifications from the perspective of an MCAL software developer. In recent years, by utilizing the Virtual Platform, we have started to develop MCAL software even before we have actual microcontroller/SoC and provide the MCAL software to our customers at an early stage. We will continue to analyze new market needs and respond to AUTOSAR standard updates.
Conclusion
We are proud of the fact that our AUTOSAR MCAL software supports "the realization of the driving, turning, stopping, and connectivity required for automobiles" and "the realization of a safe and convenient society“. We will continue to provide AUTOSAR MCAL software with better quality and performance.