Re: need L290 substitute

Hal Murray wrote:
CPLD?

That can get you from one obsolescence problem into the next. Programmable logic doesn't have a particularly long life span and it's expensive.

Maybe, but it's a different dimension of obsolescence. It's
very likely that similar CPLDs will be available. You might
have to recompile or even spin the board, but you are very
likely to be able to get a similar chip.


How fast do the bits change? Can you do it in software
with a PIC/AVR/8051? ...

Way to go.

Only if it's fast enough.

What is the track record on lifetime of PICs or AVRs or 8051s vs CPLDs?



I don't know PICs and AVRs but one of my 8051-based designs from the early 90's is still in full prodcution with no end in sight. Some younger folks scoff at the 8051 but that's because they have never been through an obsolescence situation where da boss paces down the hallway all hollering and chewing everyone out ;-)

The MSP430 has a pretty good track record but lately TI's support has become quite pathetic. They don't even answer serious requests after several reminders. Very sad because their 16-bit architecture is pretty nice and fast. I hope this won't become another case where management destroys an otherwise excellent company.

CPLD? Not with a 10ft pole, unless I absoutely have to. And I usually do not have to.

--
Regards, Joerg

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