Abstract: An IC includes a plurality of functional blocks each having a discrete block-level architecture. The functional blocks are connected to one another via metal interconnect lines defined by an interconnect architecture. One or more of the functional blocks includes a spare (i.e., unused) repeater amplifier. Where a repeater amplifier inserted in a particular long line of the interconnect structure would decrease the signal propagation delay through the long line, the interconnect architecture is modified so that the long line is routed through the spare repeater amplifier. Such modification decreases the signal propagation delay of the long line without requiring a modification of the block-level architecture.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of efficiently and dynamically generating the addresses associated with a set of instructions in a microprocessor pipeline is disclosed. Program counter age bits associated with the offsets of an address of a predetermined instruction within a set of instructions are used to indicate the chronological age of each instruction within the set of instructions. The age bits are generated by a logic circuit which also dispatches instructions to various execution units. The age bits are used to maintain and track the addresses of an instruction stream within a processing system so that there is no need to store the addresses of each and every instruction.

Abstract: Certain bits in existing op code formats for a processor do not change from one instruction to another when particular classes of instructions are used. Applicants optionally utilize one or more of these bits to identify one of a plurality of different register files from which to retrieve operands or to store the results of an operation. These bits along with allocated address bits in predetermined address fields now allow the processor to address many more registers. This can be used to increase the performance of the processor. Those programs not utilizing the bits outside of the address fields for designating a particular register file are backwards compatible with the modified processor.

Abstract: An underground emergency shelter system for sanctuary during emergency weather conditions. A tubular entranceway allows access to the underground structure. Air intake vent stacks are positioned along with air output vent stacks to provide on top of the shell member which forms the shelter. Battery powered blowers serve to circulate air flow into and out of the shelter. Spaced stabilizing feet are provided underneath the shell member with T-shaped anchors lying on either side of the shell member to hold the shelter in place beneath the ground. Steel cable members are fitted within channels formed circumferentially around the upper portion of the shell member and are each attached to a pair of anchors thus serving to hold the shell in place. A waste holding tank is provided within the shell member along with a potable water holding tank.