Abstract:
This data acquisition and control system includes many features for enhancing real time response to external or internal conditions. One feature relates to the use of multiple processor control circuits which can be switched between active and inactive status for controlling the performance of processor operations as a function of the level of priority of received interrupt service requests. Another feature pertains to I/O devices attached to the processor. These I/O devices include means for retaining data dynamically allocable by the processor program for specifying assigned interrupt levels and/or for identifying the requisite servicing subroutine in the processor to permit rapid response when an interrupt service is granted. The devices monitor their own status and provide a summary bit to the processor identifying whether or not a status data interchange is required. Multiple masking allows the processor to select between masking all interrupts, interrupts from any source on one or more interrupt priority levels, interrupts from a particular device or devices, or any combination of these.
Abstract:
A plurality of devices any one of which can request service by a central controlling unit are interconnected in a loop arrangement by an enabling line. The controlling unit is effectively coupled in parallel to all the devices so that the presence of a service request by one of them will immediately initiate operations that will result in one of the devices being granted service. Each device includes logic circuitry to force it to actuate its leg of the enabling line loop if it was the device granted last service or if it does not have a service request present. The connection of the device to the controlling unit results only if it has a service request and receives an enabling line signal from the device preceding it on the loop. Means for bypassing device requests to read high priority requests can be included as can means to initiate data gating overlapping with the establishing of the servicing connection.
Abstract:
A plurality of devices any one of which can request service by a central controlling unit are interconnected in a loop arrangement by an enabling line. The controlling unit is effectively coupled in parallel to all the devices so that the presence of a service request by one of them will immediately initiate operations that will result in one of the devices being granted service. Each device includes logic circuitry to force it to actuate its leg of the enabling line loop if it was the device granted last service or if it does not have a service request present. The connection of the device to the controlling unit results only if it has a service request and receives an enabling line signal from the device preceding it on the loop. Means for bypassing device requests to read high priority requests can be included as can means to initiate data gating overlapping with the establishing of the servicing connection.