Abstract: An array of data values, such as an image of pixel values, is stored in a main memory (12). A processing operation is performed using the pixel values. The processing operation defines time points of movement of a multidimensional region (20, 22) of locations in the image. Pixel values from inside and around the region are cached for processing. At least when a cache miss occurs for a pixel value from outside the region, cache replacement of data in cache locations (142) is performed. Locations that store pixel data for locations in the image outside the region (20, 22) are selected for replacement, selectively exempting from replacement cache locations (142) that store pixel data locations in the image inside the region. In embodiments, different types of cache structure are used for caching data values inside and outside the region. In an embodiment the cache locations for pixel data inside the regions support a higher level of output parallelism than the cache locations for pixel data around the region.

Abstract: A programmed computer and method are described for generating a processor design. The method carried out by the programmed computer comprises providing an initial model for the processor, specifying a plurality of resources in terms of resource parameters and their mutual relations. Furthermore, statistics are provided indicative of the required use of the resources by a selected application. Thereafter, a reduced resource design is generated by the programmed computer by relaxing at least one resource parameter and/or limiting an amount of resources specified in the initial specification on the basis of the statistics.

Abstract: Differences in encoding efficiency of instructions may arise if certain operations require very large immediate values as operands, as opposed to others requiring no immediate values or small immediate values. The present invention describes a processing apparatus, a compiler as well as a method for processing data, allowing the use of instructions that require large immediate data, while simultaneously maintaining an efficient encoding and decoding of instructions. The processing apparatus comprises a plurality of issue slots (UC0, UC1, UC2, UC3), wherein each issue slot comprises a plurality of functional units (FU20, FU21, FU22). The processing apparatus is arranged for processing data, based on control signals generated from a set of instructions being executed in parallel. The processing apparatus further comprises a dedicated issue slot (UC4) arranged for loading an immediate value (IMV1) in dependence upon a dedicated instruction (IMM).

Abstract: A method is disclosed for partitioning a specification in a source code. In a first step, the specification is converted into a plurality of abstract syntax trees. In a second step, the plurality of abstract syntax trees is partitioned into at least a first set and a second set. The first set of abstract syntax trees is to be implemented by a first processor and the second set of abstract syntax trees is to be implemented by a second processor. The first and second set of abstracts syntax trees are translated to a specification in the original source code language, respectively, allowing the user to add manual changes to the specifications. Furthermore, specific compiler and design tools are used to convert the specifications into corresponding executable machine code and a specification of the co-processor.

Abstract: A digital signal processing system comprises a programmable processor (PROC) and a peripheral device (PD, MEM) coupled to the programmable processor via a burst generation device (BG). The processor is arranged to communicate with the peripheral device using a read operation and a write operation, respectively, on a single data element. The burst generation device (BG) groups a plurality of read operations or a plurality of write operations in a single burst read operation or a single burst write operation, respectively.