The ML610Q100 family of parts is a component of a much larger family of processors that are based on the U8 processor core, which is an 8-bit data RISC core. The U8 core evolved out of the U4, a 4-bit RISC core, invented by Oki over 25 years ago. LAPIS has shipped over one billion U4 based devices and over 200 Million U8 based devices since their initial release over five years ago. In late 2014 LAPIS Semiconductor will be releasing U16 based devices. The U16 core is capable of handling 8- or 16-bit data, they run faster and consume less power than comparable U8 core devices, even at full speed. LAPIS Semiconductor also offers low power solar management devices which can be used in a wide variety of energy harvesting applications, where these microcontrollers could also be used.