Abstract: Serial communication circuitry (10) having multiple queues (11-14) for use in a data processing system (95). Each queue (11-14) has multiple entries (52). Serial transfers from the multiple queues (11-14) are carried out under the control of global parameters (e.g. 205, 209), per-queue parameters (e.g. 211-212, 214-217), and per-entry parameters (e.g. 350-361). Each queue can be programmed to have a different set of per-queue parameters, and each entry within a queue can be programmed to have a different set of per-entry parameters. In addition, serial communication circuitry (10) can perform serial data transfers in response to the assertion of a trigger signal (30) from a source such as a timer (63) or a central processing unit (61). As a result, data transfers can be more precisely related to a particular timing signal or set of timing signals.

Abstract: An analog-to-digital conversion module, QADC (1), and method minimize software involvement by providing a pause capacility. Each queue in the QADC (1) has one or more Conversion Command Words, CCWs (82), in a Conversion Command Word Table (62). Each conversion command word, CCW (82), has a Pause bit which can be used to create multiple sub-queues of A/D conversions without requiring the use of interrupts. The Pause bit can be used to place a queue in a pause state. When a queue enters a pause state, the scanning of CCWs (82) is stopped. The queue must then receive a trigger in order for the scanning of CCWs (82) to continue again.