• Non-profit consortium supported by member dues and license fees
• Real world benchmark software helps designers select the right embedded processors for their systems
• Standard benchmarks and methodology ensure fair and reasonable comparisons
• EEMBC Technology Center manages development of new benchmark software and certifies benchmark test results

EEMBC, the Embedded Microprocessor Benchmark Consortium, was formed in 1997 to develop meaningful performance benchmarks for the hardware and software used in embedded systems. Through the combined efforts of its members, EEMBC® benchmarks have become an industry standard for evaluating the capabilities of embedded processors, compilers, and Java implementations according to objective, clearly defined, application-based criteria.

Since releasing its first certified benchmark scores in April 2000, EEMBC scores have effectively replaced the obsolete Dhrystone mips, especially in situations where real engineering value is important. EEMBC benchmarks reflect real-world applications and the demands that embedded systems encounter in these environments. The result is a collection of "algorithms" and "applications" organized into benchmark suites targeting telecommunications, networking, digital media, Java, automotive/industrial, consumer, and office equipment products. An additional suite of algorithms specifically targets the capabilities of 8- and 16-bit microcontrollers.

EEMBC's certification rules represent another break with the past. For a processor's scores to be published, the EEMBC Technology Center must execute benchmarks run by the manufacturer. EEMBC certification ensures that scores are repeatable, obtained fairly, and according to EEMBC's rules. Scores for devices that have been tested and certified can be searched from our Benchmark Search page.

The Origins of EEMBC
EEMBC traces its origins to a "hands-on project" conducted by Markus Levy at EDN Magazine in early 1996. Intended to address the ineffectiveness of Dhrystone MIPS as a tool for evaluating embedded processor performance, Levy's project set as its goal the creation of a new set of benchmarks that would provide better information to aid in the analysis of microprocessors, microcontrollers, and compilers. After extensive research, the need became apparent for a joint, democratic effort involving the leading suppliers in the embedded industry to make the new benchmarks a reality.

The EEMBC idea was first proposed by Mr. Levy at a March 1997 luncheon in Boston. Attending companies included AMD, ARM, Digital, EDN, Hitachi, IBM, Intel, LSI Logic, Microchip, Motorola, National Semiconductor, NEC, Philips, SGS-Thomson, Siemens, Sun, TEMIC, Texas Instruments, and Toshiba, a number of whom would become EEMBC's original members. Six months later, with funding and legal approval from 12 initial members, EEMBC was founded as a non-profit industry-standard consortium. Since that time, EEMBC's membership has grown to more than 50 members and its benchmark suites have effectively replaced Dhrystone MIPS as the industry standard for measuring processor, DSP, and compiler performance.