In the past, many embedded applications have utilized multiple processing platforms in a system for security, performance, and reliability reasons. By running applications on completely separate processing platforms applications could be fully isolated from one another. This would help prevent external or low priority processes from accessing critical or sensitive data, as well as prevent those external or lower priority processes from interfering with the real-time or reliable operation of critical system functions. Through client-side virtualization, developers can now implement completely isolated application and operating system functions on a single processing platform enabling less complex, lower power, and lower cost system implementations. Some examples of applications that can benefit from client-side virtualization include industrial controls and automation, casino gaming, enterprise storage, telecommunications, and medical.
In client-side virtualization, a hypervisor or a virtual machine monitor (VMM) partitions the client device into multiple environments known as virtual machines (VMs). Each VM can then be loaded with its own operating system. Developers can encapsulate different tasks, such as secure communications, data storage and user interface in different VMs. For example, an instance of the Windows® 7 operating system could be dedicated to running a user interface, while Linux® runs secure communications and data storage applications, with each operating system completely isolated from one another delivering a high level of security and reliability for critical communications and data storage.
AMD-V™ technology is a set of unique on-chip features that help AMD processor-based clients run multiple operating systems and applications on a single machine by improving the efficiency of virtualization software. AMD-V technology allows you to better utilize your resources, making your client systems more effective.
AMD Fusion Family of APUs and AMD Athlon™, AMD Phenom™, AMD Turion™ and AMD Opteron™ processors support AMD-V technology. Additionally, a utility can be run to check for the enablement of AMD-V on your AMD-based platform. For complete details on the AMD-V features supported by a particular AMD Embedded APU or processor please refer to the Product Data Sheet which can be found here on the AMD Embedded Developers Web Site.