Abstract: A method for designing and operating a multi-processor computer system, in which data required for performing a task is determined by a first processor and then downloaded to a second processor that will execute the task. The data is associated with regions whose uses are expected by the second processor but whose actual contents are determined by the first processor. The method accommodates mutually exclusive access by both processors to memory of the second processor, while providing all data required for the task in a single read operation.

Abstract: A multiprocessor, multitasking digital processing system, having a host processor and a number of digital signal processors. Tasks are downloaded from the host processor to the digital signal processors, and are scheduled under the control of a scheduler program residing on the signal processors. Each task provides the scheduler with its processing characteristics, so that resources can be efficiently allocated according to the memory and processing requirements of the task.