DHRUV64 Chip
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) launched the DHRUV64, an indigenous microprocessor developed by C-DAC under MEITY’s Microprocessor Development Programme. It is a 64-bit, dual-core processor designed for various applications from consumer electronics to industrial automation.
Significance and Applications
- Enhances national indigenous processor capabilities.
- Potential use in telecom networks, industrial control, and more.
- Aims to reduce dependency on imported designs and supply chains.
Technical Specifications
- 64-bit, dual-core processor running at 1 GHz.
- Fast enough for operating systems yet efficient for embedded deployment.
Challenges and Considerations
- 64-bit designs are modern but may not meet consumer standards compared to top-tier CPUs.
- Existing markets already have mature products and ecosystems.
- Efforts needed to make DHRUV64 attractive to local manufacturers.
India's Processor Ecosystem
- Other indigenous processors: SHAKTI (IIT-Madras), AJIT (IIT-Bombay), VIKRAM (ISRO), THEJAS64 (C-DAC).
- Aimed at strategic operations, control systems, and industrial applications.
RISC-V and DIR-V Programme
RISC-V is an open instruction set enabling design without a license fee. It is modular, allowing customization based on chip requirements. The DHRUV64 is linked to the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) programme aimed at developing microprocessors for diverse sectors.
Development and Fabrication Concerns
- Unclear where DHRUV64 was fabricated.
- Lacks detailed engineering and performance information.
- Ambiguity around the chip being "fully indigenous".
Future Roadmap and Initiatives
- C-DAC plans to develop 'DHANUSH' and 'DHANUSH+' with higher specifications.
- Government initiatives like 'Chips to Startup', Design Linked Incentive scheme, and INUP-i2i aim to boost the semiconductor ecosystem.
- Indian Semiconductor Mission approves projects worth ₹1.6 lakh crore.
Conclusion
The ultimate goal is for Indian consumers to opt for Indian chips without incurring high costs or risks, contributing to the self-reliance in the semiconductor industry.
