Alchemy processors are SoCs integrating a CPU core, a memory controller, and a varying set of peripherals.
In February 2002 AMD acquired Alchemy in order to compete with Intel's ARM-based XScale processors, successor to the StrongARM line.
In Summer 2006 AMD sold its Alchemy assets to Raza Microelectronics, later renamed RMI Corporation.
The Au1 CPU core designed by Alchemy implements the MIPS32 ISA Release 1 and supports the MIPS EJTAG interface.
Virtual address translation is TLB-based and relies on a fast exception handler rather than a hardware table walker.
The LCD controller of Au12xx processors supports up to 2K resolution and up to 24 bits per pixel, four overlay windows, alpha blending, and gamma correction.
The Camera Interface Module pins out an ITU-R BT.656 compatible 8/9/10-bit bus running at up to 33 MHz, and supports UYVY (YUV 4:2:2) and Bayer RGB to planar format conversion.
The MAE2 peripheral of Au13xx processors adds support for the H.264 and JPEG standards, hardware bit stream decoding, and resolutions up to 720p.
Each member of the family was available with different core frequency and hence power ratings, commercial and industrial temperature ranges, in a Pb-free or (earlier models) standard package.
Alchemy processors were marketed for wireless gateways and access points; VoIP, navigation, and NAS devices; STBs, thin clients, portable and automotive TV and media players, and digital photo frames.