Embedded microprocessors to grow 6% in 2005

The worldwide market for embedded controllers/processors (MCUs/MPUs) will grow 6% in 2005 on top of 22% growth in 2004 to $18 bln, according to The Information Network. In 2008, 8-bit MCUs will hold a 39% share of the $18 bln MCU market. In 2008, the market for 8-bit MPUs will be nearly $800 mln. Renesas Technology, formed by the merger of Hitachi and Mitsubishi, led the market in 2004 with a 16.8% share. Hitachi increased its market share because of strong demand not only for its SH architecture, but in the 8- and 16-bit sectors. Renesas held a 15.3% share of the 8-bit MCU market and a 62.3% share of the 16-bit MCU market. Motorola was second with a market share of 15.1%, buoyed by HCS12, MPC500, MPC5500 and ColdFire processor design wins, which are helping drive growth.