Abstract: A scheduler for a set of data packet storage devices (e.g., FIFOs) implements a scheduling algorithm embodied in a look-up table (LUT) that identifies the next FIFO to select for service based on the current status of the FIFOs. In one embodiment, in addition to a memory device used to store the LUT, the scheduler has (1) a latch adapted to store and forward the LUT output and (2) an extractor that implements a finite state machine that determines (1) when to enable the latch and (2) when to forward the identification of the next FIFO to select for service to the set of FIFOs. Using a LUT enables relatively complicated scheduling algorithms to be implemented for relatively large numbers of FIFOs without significantly increasing the execution time of the scheduler.

Abstract: An electrically operated animal hair shear or cutting device including an electric motor housing, hair cutting blade means and a conventional toothed comb member carried by the device, and a second comb member carried by the device with the first comb member disposed between the blade means and the second comb member in spaced relation. The same device mounting apertures and mounting means for the first comb member may be employed to detachably mount the second comb means to the device.