Infineon AURIX TC2xx

Infineon AURIX™ TC2xx is a family of 32-bit automotive microcontrollers developed by Infineon Technologies. AURIX™ stands for “Automotive Realtime Integrated Next Generation Architecture”, reflecting its design for real-time, safety-critical automotive applications. The TC2xx series (first-generation AURIX™) is based on a multicore architecture featuring up to three independent 32-bit TriCore™ processor cores. Introduced around 2012, the AURIX™ TC2xx marked Infineon’s transition to a multicore microcontroller platform (fabricated in 65 nm technology) after earlier single-core TriCore™ generations. It was designed from the ground up to meet stringent automotive safety requirements (ISO 26262) and to provide higher performance and integration for applications like engine management, chassis control, and driver assistance systems.

The AURIX™ TC2xx family’s design philosophy is to combine safety, security, and performance in one scalable MCU platform. It achieves high functional safety compliance (up to ASIL-D, the highest automotive safety integrity level) with less development effort compared to traditional dual-controller lockstep systems. Infineon claims that using AURIX™ can cut safety-related development time by ~30% versus classical lockstep architectures, thanks to its built-in fault detection and monitoring hardware. At the same time, the TC2xx provides significant performance headroom – roughly 50% to 100% higher computational performance compared to its predecessors – while maintaining power consumption similar to previous single-core designs. To address emerging automotive security needs, the AURIX™ MCUs also integrate a dedicated Hardware Security Module (HSM) on-chip, which protects against IP theft, fraud, and tampering. This combination of features makes the AURIX™ TC2xx a popular choice for consolidating various automotive control functions (powertrain, safety, body, etc.) onto one platform, without sacrificing reliability or efficiency.

Architecture

The AURIX™ TC2xx is built on Infineon’s TriCore™ architecture, which uniquely unifies traits of a RISC processor, a microcontroller, and a DSP (digital signal processor) into one core design. Each TriCore™ CPU in the TC2xx is a 32-bit superscalar processor that supports both 32-bit and 16-bit instruction formats (the latter for code size efficiency). The TriCore™ instruction set architecture includes typical RISC features (load/store architecture, 4 GB address space) and DSP capabilities (such as multiply-accumulate instructions and bit manipulation) in a single core. The cores also have an optional floating-point unit (FPU) and support SIMD (single-instruction multiple-data) operations for signal processing acceleration. The maximum core frequency in the TC2xx family is 300 MHz, and devices achieve about 1.7–2.4 DMIPS/MHz per core, providing robust real-time performance.

In terms of core configuration, high-end AURIX™ TC2xx models implement three main TriCore™ CPUs, which can be run in parallel or in redundant (lockstep) pairs for safety. Some variants include a redundant checker core that shadows a primary core to detect calculation errors (a technique to meet SIL/ASIL safety goals). The multicore architecture is supported by a layered memory system: each TriCore™ has tightly coupled local memory for fast instruction and data access, and they share access to large on-chip Flash and RAM via an internal bus matrix. Memory options in the TC2xx range from about 0.5 MB up to 8 MB of on-chip Flash, and from ~50 KB up to 2.7 MB of SRAM, depending on the specific device. This on-chip memory (with ECC protection on memories for safety) allows real-time code execution and data storage without external memory in most use cases. For peripherals and I/O, the AURIX™ architecture includes a rich set of on-chip modules connected via internal buses, such as analog-to-digital converters, timer units, communication interfaces, and direct memory access (DMA) controllers. AURIX™ TC2xx MCUs typically provide interfaces like multiple CAN/CAN-FD channels, LIN/UART, SPI, I²C, Ethernet (on higher-end models), and automotive-specific buses (e.g. FlexRay on some variants), making the chip a self-contained controller for complex automotive networks.

The Generic Timer Module (GTM) is a notable part of the AURIX™ TC2xx architecture. It is a sophisticated timer/co-processor integrated on-chip to handle complex timing, PWM generation, input capture, and other signal conditioning tasks across more than 200 channels. There are also specialized accelerators and co-processors on certain TC2xx devices, such as a Hardware Fast Fourier Transform (HFFT) unit for signal processing and a Parallel Pixel Processor for simple video or sensor data processing. These dedicated engines offload the TriCore™ CPUs for specific high-load tasks (e.g. radar signal FFTs or encoder signal processing), improving overall throughput in automotive applications. The AURIX™ architecture uses a single-power supply (5V or 3.3V) design and includes an on-chip voltage regulator (EVR), simplifying power management. The MCUs are offered in a variety of package types (from compact QFP-64 up to large BGA-516) to accommodate different I/O needs. Overall, the TC2xx architecture is highly integrated and optimized for real-time, combining multiple CPU cores with ample flash memory, SRAM, and peripherals on one chip to serve as a central control unit in vehicles.

CPU access latency (TC29x)

CPU Access Type	Local CPU
Data read access to own DSPR	0
Data write access to own DSPR	0
Data read access to own or other PSPR	8
Data write access to own or other PSPR	0
Data read access to other DSPR	8
Data write access to other DSPR	0
Instruction fetch from own PSPR	0
Instruction fetch from other PSPR (critical word)	8
Instruction fetch from other PSPR (any remaining words)	0
Instruction fetch from other DSPR (critical word)	8
Instruction fetch from other DSPR (any remaining words)	0
Initial Pflash Access (critical word)	7 + configured PFlash Wait States
Initial Pflash Access (remaining words)	0
PMU PFlash Buffer Hit (critical word)	6
PMU PFlash Buffer Hit (remaining words)	0
Initial Dflash Access	7 + configured DFlash Wait States
TC1.6P Data read from System Peripheral Bus (SPB)	4 (fCPU = fSPB) 7 (fCPU = 2*fSPB) 10 (fCPU = 3*fSPB)
TC1.6P Data write to System Peripheral Bus (SPB)	0

Key Features

• Safety Mechanisms: The AURIX™ TC2xx was developed via an ISO 26262-compliant process and includes multiple hardware mechanisms to achieve functional safety up to ASIL-D. Notably, it supports lockstep operation, where one or two of the TriCore™ CPUs can run in redundant lockstep mode with another core to detect discrepancies (faults) cycle-by-cycle. A Safety Management Unit (SMU) is built in to monitor critical system parameters and handle faults. The architecture employs memory protection units and safe internal communication buses to isolate and supervise different software domains. Other safety features include error-correcting code (ECC) on flash and RAM, redundant peripherals (for example, duplicated ADC channels), watchdog timers, clock and voltage monitors, and self-test routines. These features allow developers to more easily implement safety-critical functions and meet standards like IEC 61508 (SIL-3) or ISO 26262 (ASIL-D) using a single AURIX™ MCU, whereas achieving the same on a traditional single-core MCU might require additional external safety ICs or companion processors.
• Security Functions: Infineon integrated a dedicated Hardware Security Module (HSM) into the AURIX™ TC2xx family to address automotive cybersecurity requirements. This HSM is essentially an on-chip co-processor (with its own CPU and flash) that handles cryptographic operations and secure key storage isolated from the main cores. It follows the EVITA (E-safety Vehicle Intrusion Protected Applications) guidelines for automotive security. The HSM enables features like secure boot, encryption/decryption, authentication, and detection of software tampering. By having a built-in “embedded smart card” for security, the AURIX™ can implement anti-theft, anti-cloning, and secure onboard communication measures without needing an external security chip. This integration is a key differentiator, as it helps protect vehicle functions (e.g. immobilizers, firmware updates, V2X communication) against hacking and unauthorized modifications.
• Performance and DSP Capability: Each TriCore™ CPU in the TC2xx is capable of up to 300 MHz operation, and combined the multicore setup offers considerable processing power for an MCU (Infineon cites up to ~1.8 GFLOPS of DSP throughput for the highest models). The TriCore™ design delivers around 1.7–2.4 DMIPS/MHz per core, meaning a triple-core AURIX™ at max frequency can exceed 2000 DMIPS of total throughput. The inclusion of DSP instructions and dedicated accelerators enables the AURIX™ to handle computationally intensive tasks (like control algorithms, filtering operations, or even rudimentary neural networks) that previously might require a separate DSP or FPGA. A built-in Floating Point Unit on each core supports single-precision (and optional double-precision in some cases) arithmetic, beneficial for model-based control algorithms and automotive sensor processing. Peripherals like the Generic Timer Module (GTM) and Hardware FFT accelerator (available on select TC2xx variants) further boost real-time performance for handling high-frequency events (e.g. engine ignition timing, motor control PWM, radar signal analysis) without overloading the CPU. Despite the performance, the TC2xx was designed with efficiency in mind; Infineon managed to double the performance over the prior generation (TC1xx AUDO) while keeping power consumption at comparable levels. The MCUs also support various low-power modes and a standby controller to minimize energy usage when parts of the system are idle.
• Power and Integration: As a system-on-chip for vehicles, AURIX™ TC2xx integrates a wide range of communication interfaces and analog/digital peripherals. Common features include multiple CAN bus controllers (often with CAN FD support), LIN/UART, SPI and I²C channels, FlexRay communication in high-end models, and even Ethernet (in variants aimed at gateway or ADAS roles). High-resolution ADC units (with shared and redundant channels) allow precise sensor measurements for engine or chassis control. There are also specialized modules like delta-sigma ADCs and SENT interfaces for automotive sensor inputs. This rich peripheral set reduces the need for external components, helping to lower the overall system Bill of Materials. The TC2xx devices operate over a broad temperature range (typically –40 °C to +150 °C), meeting the demands of under-the-hood automotive environments. They run from a single supply (with internal regulators), simplifying designs, and support both 5 V and 3.3 V systems for compatibility with a variety of sensors and actuators. Combined with its safety and security features, the AURIX’s™ high integration makes it a one-chip solution for many complex embedded applications.

Applications

The Infineon AURIX™ TC2xx family is primarily targeted at the automotive industry, especially domains requiring high reliability and real-time control. Its initial use cases were in powertrain and engine management systems – for example, controlling combustion engines, managing fuel injection and ignition, and coordinating electric motor and battery systems in hybrid or electric vehicles. The multi-core AURIX™ can run multiple control algorithms in parallel (e.g. for an engine’s cylinders, transmission and motor inverter concurrently), which is valuable in modern electrified powertrains. Beyond engines, AURIX™ TC2xx MCUs are used in chassis and safety systems: they can serve as the central controller for anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and stability control, airbag control units, electric power steering (EPS) systems, and suspension controllers. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving modules in earlier generations of vehicles have also employed AURIX™ for tasks such as sensor fusion, radar signal processing, and acting as a safety supervisor for driving assistance features. For example, a radar unit for adaptive cruise control might use an AURIX™ to perform real-time signal processing (using its DSP capabilities and HFFT) and make high-level decisions, all within an ASIL-D safe environment.

Thanks to its safety certification and robust design, the AURIX™ TC2xx has seen adoption in any application that cannot tolerate failure. This includes industrial automation and robotics, where the MCU’s reliability and support for functional safety (IEC 61508) are attractive. In industrial motor drives or robotics controllers, an AURIX™ might handle precise motor control algorithms and system monitoring. Other use cases outside pure automotive include commercial vehicles and transportation (trucks, agricultural and construction machinery), which have similar safety and durability requirements. The AURIX’s™ extensive communication interfaces also make it suitable as a gateway or central node in complex networks – for instance, acting as a domain controller in modern automotive E/E architectures to coordinate data between powertrain, body, and ADAS subsystems. Some electric vehicle (EV) platforms use AURIX™ MCUs in battery management systems and inverter controls, leveraging its calculation power for battery algorithms and its safety for monitoring cell health. In summary, the TC2xx family finds use in scenarios that demand real-time performance with high safety integrity, predominantly in automotive (engine, transmission, chassis, safety, ADAS) but also in high-end industrial embedded systems.

emmtrix Tools for AURIX™ TC2xx

emmtrix Technologies is an Infineon Associated Partner with over 10 years of experience working with the Infineon AURIX™ microcontroller family and has been actively collaborating with Infineon for the past five years.

emmtrix offers the following tool for the Infineon AURIX™ TC2xx architecture:

emmtrix Performance Estimator

emmtrix Performance Estimator (ePE) provides static timing analysis of C code. Compared to simulation or measurement on hardware, static performance analysis can be applied significantly earlier in the development process and will deliver results on average 6 months earlier compared to a typical automotive HIL setup. The analysis only takes a few minutes at most and runs on the developer’s PC independently of any target hardware. Function developers can analyze their runnables or SWCs without the need of a fully integrated program. emmtrix Performance Estimator is fully compatible with Infineon's AURIX™ TC2xx / TC3xx/ TC4x microcontroller family, ensuring precise and reliable performance analysis for embedded systems.

A unique feature is the combination with TargetLink or Embedded Coder generated code. Without any measurement overhead, our static performance estimation can analyze even the smallest code snippets. This allows us to map the timing analysis to Simulink blocks, giving function developers insight into the timing behavior of their models.

ePE offers three accuracy levels:

• analysis of C code
• generically compiler-optimized code
• assembly code from the target compiler.

Method 1 yields results with minimum effort while method 3 takes the timing of the processor pipeline into account. All methods offer excellent reliability when tracking the tendency of changes in software runtimes e.g. when used in a continuous integration environment.

See Also

• Infineon AURIX™ TC3xx
• Infineon AURIX™ TC4x
• TriCore™ Instruction Set Architecture

External Links

• https://www.infineon.com/cms/en/product/microcontroller/32-bit-tricore-microcontroller/32-bit-tricore-aurix-tc2xx/
• TC29x B-Step User Manual