Abstract: System and method for reading and writing pixel aligned subframes from a frame buffer in a parallel processing system are disclosed. Optimal bandwidth access of the frame buffer requires that data be moved in bursts having multiple data words. Subframes are specified at X and Y locations within the image frame with a resolution of one pixel. In addition, subframes within a row may overlap each other and consecutive subframe rows may also overlap. Memory control logic of the invention provides pixel packing and unpacking and storing selected pixel data in a cache memory. Reading and writing to the frame buffer is provided in a manner that makes optimal use of the frame buffer internal architecture. Other capabilities of the memory control logic include decimation of pixel data during input, suppression of redundant frame buffer writes, and accessing image frame data in an interlaced manner.