uLisp is a version of the Lisp programming language specifically designed to run on micro-controllers with a limited amount of RAM. This innovative adaptation now supports Adafruit’s ATSAMD51-based series of M4 boards, including the Adafruit Metro M4, Adafruit ItsyBitsy M4, and Adafruit Feather M4.
The Adafruit Metro M4, Adafruit ItsyBitsy M4, and Adafruit Feather M4 are each based on the ATSAMD51 ARM Cortex M4 microcontroller running at 120 MHz, featuring 512 KB flash and 192 KB RAM. Despite sharing the same core specifications, each board offers very different physical form factors to cater to various project needs. “The boards also include a separate 2 MB SPI DataFlash chip which is used by uLisp to allow you to save the Lisp image using (save-image). These are currently recommended as the fastest platforms supporting uLisp. For example, the Arduino Zero runs the Tak benchmark in 10 secs, and the Adafruit ItsyBitsy takes 4.1 secs.”
Adafruit Metro M4
The Adafruit Metro M4 is the same size as the original Arduino Uno, making it compatible with a wide range of Arduino shields. This compatibility allows developers to leverage existing hardware extensions, making it a versatile choice for various applications. The Metro M4’s robust processing power and ample memory make it ideal for more complex projects that require additional computational resources.
Adafruit ItsyBitsy M4 and Feather M4
The Adafruit ItsyBitsy M4, on the other hand, is designed for compact projects where space is a premium. Despite its small size, it does not compromise on performance, making it a powerful tool for embedded systems and portable devices. The ItsyBitsy M4’s ability to run the Tak benchmark in just 4.1 seconds is a testament to its efficiency and speed.
Similarly, the Adafruit Feather M4 offers a balance between size and functionality. It is slightly larger than the ItsyBitsy but still maintains a compact form factor. The Feather M4 is equipped with additional features such as battery charging capabilities, making it suitable for mobile and battery-powered applications. Its versatility and performance make it a popular choice among hobbyists and professionals alike.
uLisp’s Impact on Microcontroller Programming
The introduction of uLisp for these Adafruit boards significantly enhances the capabilities of microcontroller programming. Lisp, known for its powerful features in symbolic computation and rapid prototyping, brings a new level of sophistication to microcontroller projects. With uLisp, developers can now implement complex algorithms and data structures that were previously challenging to achieve on resource-constrained devices.
Moreover, the ability to save and restore Lisp images using the 2 MB SPI DataFlash chip simplifies the development process. This feature allows developers to preserve their work and quickly resume their projects, enhancing productivity and reducing development time.
For more information, jump over to the official uLisp website for more details, code examples, and specifications. The website provides comprehensive resources for getting started with uLisp, including tutorials, documentation, and community support.
Source: AF : Twitter : uLisp
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