Abstract: The exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to a generalized LRU algorithm is provided that is associated with a specified cache associativity line set value that is determined by a system user. As configured, the LRU algorithm as presented can comprise n-levels for an LRU tree, each specified tree being individually analyzed within the LRU algorithm. Within each LRU tree level comprises the associativity line value can be further broken down into sub-analysis groups of any desired configuration, however, the total sub-analysis group configuration must equal the specified cache associativity line value.

Abstract: Cache coherency latency is reduced through a method and apparatus that expedites the return of line exclusivity to a given processor in a multi-node data handling system through enhanced inter-node communications.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for eliminating, in a multi-nodes data handling system, contention for exclusivity of lines in cache memory through improved management of system buses, processor cross-invalidate stacks, and the system operations that can lead to these requested cache operations being rejected.

Abstract: A method to use of dual valid bit sets including a regular bit set and alternate valid bits set which prevents new requests to a given cache line from entering a multi-nodal computer systems' nest system until all requests to the given cache line have been completed successfully. By providing the alternate valid bits the dual set of resource valids for each remote requester is provided for each remote requester, where one set of valids indicates if the resource is valid and actively working on the line, and the other set of valids indicates if the resource was valid but encountered some conflict that requires resolution before the request can complete. Only on successful reload and completion of the remote operation does this alternate address valid bit reset and open the way for any pending interface requests to proceed, so all outstanding requests currently loaded in a local resource within the nest system are able to complete before new interface requests are allowed into the system.

Abstract: A modification of rank priority arbitration for access to computer system resources through a shared pipeline that provides more equitable arbitration by allowing a higher ranked request access to the shared resource ahead of a lower ranked requester only one time. If multiple requests are active at the same time, the rank priority will first select the highest priority active request and grant it access to the resource. It will also set a ‘blocking latch’ to prevent that higher priority request from re-gaining access to the resource until the rest of the outstanding lower priority active requesters have had a chance to access the resource.

Abstract: Improved access to retained data useful to a system is accomplished by managing data flow through cache associated with the processor(s) of a multi-node system. A data management facility operable with the processors and memory array directs the flow of data from the processors to the memory array by determining the path along which data evicted from a level of cache close to one of the processors is to return to a main memory and directing evicted data to be stored, if possible, in a horizontally associated cache.

Abstract: A method for processing data in a computer system using two main concepts for addressing this situation, from which numerous other implementations is achieved using a first and second main concept. The first is a method of managing a common data path among a plethora of facilities with a decentralized distributed management scheme. The second concept is a method for managing a shared data buffer or group of buffers between multitudes of facilities. By employing the concepts discussed in this invention, one can contemplate a complex dataflow consisting of a multiplicity of resources and data paths, whereby virtually any combination of sharing is possible. A single data path can be shared among multiple sources or sinks.

Abstract: A method to use of dual valid bit sets including a regular bit set and alternate valid bits set which prevents new requests to a given cache line from entering a multi-nodal computer systems' nest system until all requests to the given cache line have been completed successfully. By providing the alternate valid bits the dual set of resource valids for each remote requester is provided for each remote requester, where one set of valids indicates if the resource is valid and actively working on the line, and the other set of valids indicates if the resource was valid but encountered some conflict that requires resolution before the request can complete. Only on successful reload and completion of the remote operation does this alternate address valid bit reset and open the way for any pending interface requests to proceed, so all outstanding requests currently loaded in a local resource within the nest system are able to complete before new interface requests are allowed into the system.

Abstract: A digital camera supplies images to a first computer of a network via a receiver which is enabled as a bridge for Bluetooth, wireless LAN and infrared transmission from a digital camera. Once a digital camera is registered in a computer system, transmissions from the camera can be transmitted to the receiving first computer and thereafter transferred over the network for creation of a multi-media file which can be viewed at a private network or Internet accessible second computer.

Abstract: A method for processing data in a computer system using two main concepts for addressing this situation, from which numerous other implementations is achieved using a first and second main concept. The first is a method of managing a common data path among a plethora of facilities with a decentralized distributed management scheme. The second concept is a method for managing a shared data buffer or group of buffers between multitudes of facilities. By employing the concepts discussed in this invention, one can contemplate a complex dataflow consisting of a multiplicity of resources and data paths, whereby virtually any combination of sharing is possible. A single data path can be shared among multiple sources or sinks.

Abstract: A digital camera supplies images to a first computer of a network via a receiver which is enabled as a bridge for Bluetooth, wireless LAN and infrared transmission from a digital camera. Once a digital camera is registered in a computer system, transmissions from the camera can be transmitted to the receiving first computer and thereafter transferred over the network for creation of a multi-media file which can be viewed at a private network or Internet accessible second computer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of an alert system for notifying subscribers of weather or hazardous conditions. A weather-tracking source or service broadcasts weather or hazardous conditions across the nation to alert the general public of potentially dangerous climatic and hazardous conditions that may arise from time to time. A weather service provider receives the weather condition broadcasts from the weather-tracking source or service and transmits weather or hazardous condition signals to subscribers having an alert unit. The alert unit is a passive device capable of receiving and warning the subscribers of the weather or hazardous condition broadcasts.