Parallax has a really neat 8 core 32 bit CPU called the ‘Propeller’. It’s been out for a few years but it is gaining popularity. There is no security with the device as it boots insecurely via a UART or I2C EEPROM. None the less, we thought it was interesting to see an 8 core CPU decapsulated!
One can clearly see 8 columns that appear almost symmetric (except in the middle region). The upper 8 squares are each ‘cogs’ 512 * 32 SRAMs as described in the manual. The middle left 4 and right 4 squares are the ROM’s Parallax describes. The 8 rectangular objects are the 32KB SRAM as described. The 8 cores are basically the 8 columns above the middle ROM’s to include the 512 * 32 SRAMs because they describe each cog as having it’s own 512 * 32 SRAM :).
Last but not least is the logo by Parallax. Nice job Parallax on this beast! We have one favor- implement some flash on the next generation with a security bit ;).