1. Why Parallax (P2) is different and still used despite limited references

How it differs from typical MCUs

8 independent cores (COGs) → true parallel processing without interrupts

Precise timing control → excellent for audio, video, and signal generation

Uses its own language (Spin2) → very different from common ARM-based MCUs

Why people still use it

Parallel processing is extremely easy

Ideal for timing-critical tasks

Can generate many signals in software without extra hardware

Fun and experimental platform for makers/education

➡️ In short: it excels at precise timing + parallel tasks that normal MCUs struggle with.

2. Why references and resources are limited

Small user base (mainly hobbyists/education)

Custom language + unique architecture slows adoption

No large ecosystem like ARM

Smaller company → fewer official libraries/docs

➡️ It’s a niche MCU, so naturally the documentation is limited