Abstract: The distributed video communications system includes a plurality of nodes (10). Each of the nodes interfaces with a network that is comprised of a messaging layer (16) and a data transmission layer (14). Data is transmitted from each of the nodes to the data transmission layer in a multicast protocol such that all of the other nodes have access to the information transmitted thereto. Each of the nodes has configuration information stored in a conference configuration block (22) which is received through the messaging layer (16). A conference can be initiated by any of the nodes (10) by transmitting information as to the conferees in a conference to the other of the nodes in the conference. Each of the nodes (10) independently determines from the configuration information associated therewith the manner in which data is to be extracted from the messaging layer (14) and the manner in which it is displayed.

Abstract: A multi-processor system is provided having a processor array configured of a plurality of CPUs (20) that are disposed on a global bus (14). A VEM interface (18) is provided for interfacing between the global bus (14) and a system bus (12). Interrupts that are generated on the system bus (12) are mapped to the CPUs (20) through an interrupt controller (82). The interrupt controller (82) is operable to receive multiple interrupts and store these interrupts and their associated interrupt vectors. After storage, a gating register associated with each CPU (20) is examined to determine which interrupts are serviced by a particular CPU (20). If an interrupt is received that is to be serviced by one or more of the CPUs (20), then an external interrupt is generated for that CPU (20).