Abstract: A variable length codeword packer communicates codeword data in successive m-bit bytes. A binary sum is accumulated indicative of a total number of codeword bits received over time. A byte pointer is derived from at least one most significant bit of the binary sum. A bit pointer is derived from a plurality of least significant bits of the binary sum. A first data storage array has a plurality of m-bit first storage bytes and is responsive to the byte pointer for storing received codeword data in the first storage bytes. A second data storage array has a plurality of m-bit second storage bytes and is responsive to the byte and bit pointers for filling the second storage bytes with codeword data from the first data storage array. m-bit bytes of codeword data are output from each filled second storage byte to provide successive m-bit bytes of codeword data. The use of a multistage approach in packing variable length codewords substantially reduces the complexity as compared to single stage designs.

Abstract: A system and method of sequencing commands for operation of a volume positioning mechanism in an automated library is taught. The automated library has a plurality of volumes, a plurality of racks for storing the plurality of volumes and at least a first drive unit for recording data to or reading data from a volume mounted thereon by the volume positioning mechanism. Exogenous requests for data stored to the volumes or for storing data to volumes are received from time to time by the library. Each exogenous request for data in a volume is utilized to generate at least a first command for execution by the volume positioning mechanism. Commands as generated are stored in a command queue having a queue input level, a queue output level for the next scheduled command for execution and allowing a plurality of intervening levels. With each introduction of a new command to the command queue, the command queue is reordered with a goal of improving time to dispatch for execution of high priority commands.

Abstract: A method for modifying system configuration data sets in a telecommunications switching system that has first function modules (SWU-ADS) for processing switching-oriented and/or administration and maintenance procedures and second peripheral function modules (VMS, ETB) for realizing supplementary performance features. For producing data consistency, backup copies are produced of the content of at least a part of the databases and administration and maintenance commands that modify database contents and that are subsequently input into the system, are listed in the form of command information in the chronological sequence of their occurrence. Every command information is supplemented with a database-associated information that indicates the implementation or non-implementation of the respective administration and maintenance command.