A rich source of expert knowledge

1. Specify the basics
   For example: You want a cheap ARM processor, at least 300MHz with DDR3 interface
2. Answer this question: Which is the most unusual peripheral I need?
   For example: HDMI interface
3. Go to a supplier website and do the search
   For example: http://www.digikey.com -> Product Index > Integrated Circuits (ICs) > Embedded – Microcontrollers
4. Select the unusual peripheral:
   Peripherals -> HDMI
5. Order Ascending by price for 1000 pieces
   
   
   If you don’t have any special peripheral, search for:
   Processor core: ARM
   Speed: at least 300MHz
   Industrial temperature: at least -40C
6. Check datasheet & manufacturer website
7. Select the processor most suitable for your application.

Be careful about

• In stock checkbox – this can eliminate the cheapest variants from the list, so the results will not be accurate. On the other site, be sure, you can buy the component you finally choose.
• Category selection e.g. Processor / Microcontroller. Suppliers sometimes mix these chips together, look in both categories.
• Hardware development support – be sure, the selected chip has free reference schematics with PCB and available development kits in reasonable price
• Software support – be sure, the selected chip has a good software support with code examples. Additional software development can cause delays or increase cost significantly.
• Good documentation is advantage.
• Community support is plus.