Selection of a processor for a portable MaxiCode reader

In developing a portable device capable of capturing and decoding the two-dimensional MaxiCode symbology, the authors researched and benchmarked several microprocessors. The processor had to be able to quickly execute DSP algorithms, including FFT's and filters. It needed to be small, inexpensive, and have low power consumption. Ease of software development was also a consideration. It may come as a surprise to some that a RISC processor was selected rather than a DSP chip.<>