Abstract: A software architecture uses a source program and retrievable internal-register configuration models corresponding to data that is specific to different types of ICs, and permits configuration of the internal registers of one of the ICs. In one embodiment, the single source program causes the CPU to select and load one of a plurality of respective models for different types of ICs, to translate the loaded model, and to use the translated model to access the internal register in an IC corresponding to the loaded model. In one specific application, a PC executes the source program and configures the internal registers of an IC that is coupled to the PC through the parallel printer port. By providing an IC definition file for different types of ICs, such a PC can be programmed to reconfigure the internal registers of the corresponding ICs without requiring revisions to the source program.