This chapter introduces the Advanced Microcontroller Bus Architecture (AMBA) specification. The following sections are included: • Overview of the AMBA specification on page 1-2 • Objectives of the AMBA specification on page 1-3 • A typical AMBA-based microcontroller on page 1-4 • Terminology on page 1-6 • Introducing the AMBA AHB on page 1-7 • Introducing the AMBA ASB on page 1-9 • Introducing the AMBA APB on page 1-10 • Choosing the right bus for your system on page 1-12 • Notes on the AMBA specification on page 1-14.