Tensilica's Xtensa 7 processor is a configurable, extensible and synthesizable 32-bit RISC processor core. The Xtensa 7 processor is extremely versatile - it is well suited for control-plane as well as data-plane SOC applications. By selecting and configuration predefined elements of the architecture and by inventing completely new instructions and hardware execution units, the Xtensa 7 processor can deliver performance levels orders of magnitude faster than standard 32-bit processor cores. Designers define new instructions, adding Verilog-like descriptions of datapaths, execution units, and register files that can deliver performance, area, and power characteristics equivalent to custom logic design. Or, the designer can use the XPRES Compiler to analyze the C/C++ algorithm and automatically suggest configuration options and extensions that will run that algorithm faster. Compared to traditional hardware design, Xtensa processors deliver similar quality of results with the added benefits of accelerated design time and post-silicon software programmability, making Xtensa 7 processors ideal choices for all complex SOC designs.