Abstract: A system and a method is described for freeing renaming registers that have been allocated to architectural registers prior to another instruction redefining the architectural register. Renaming registers are used by a processor to dynamically execute instructions out-of-order. The present invention may be employed by any single or multi-threaded processor that executes instructions out-of-order. A mechanism is described for freeing renaming registers that consists of a set of instructions, used by a compiler, to indicate to the processor when it can free the physical (renaming) register that is allocated to a particular architectural register. This mechanism permits the renaming register to be reassigned or reallocated to store another value as soon as the renaming register is no longer needed for allocation to the architectural register.

Abstract: A system and a method is described for freeing renaming registers that have been allocated to architectural registers prior to another instruction redefining the architectural register. Renaming registers are used by a processor to dynamically execute instructions out-of-order. The present invention may be employed by any single or multi-threaded processor that executes instructions out-of-order. A mechanism is described for freeing renaming registers that consists of a set of instructions, used by a compiler, to indicate to the processor when it can free the physical (renaming) register that is allocated to a particular architectural register. This mechanism permits the renaming register to be reassigned or reallocated to store another value as soon as the renaming register is no longer needed for allocation to the architectural register.

Abstract: A method and organization for implementing the registers required in a computer system supporting multithreading and dynamic out-of-order execution. Multithreaded computer systems are those in which the processor supports multiple contexts (threads), and either rapid context switching from thread to thread or scheduling of instructions from different threads within a single cycle. An important component of processors for such systems is the register file; the processor needs a large register file or resource to provide the registers used for the threads. One form of the invention maintains a set of private architecturally specified registers, and a set of private renaming register for each different thread. In the other three embodiments, sharing of renaming registers between different threads is permitted, to enable a reduction in the total number of registers required.

Abstract: An ambidextrous upright computer mouse includes a relatively upright finger engaging side on one side, and a thumb engaging side on an opposite side. Two sets of buttons are positioned at opposite ends of the finger engaging side. The mouse is symmetrical about a vertical transverse medial plane. When the finger engaging side is on the right side, the mouse can be grasped by a right hand. When the mouse is rotated so that the finger engaging side is on the left side, it can be grasped by the left hand. There is always a set of buttons at the forward end of the mouse, regardless of its orientation. Only one set of buttons is enabled at any time. The sets of buttons are alternately enabled and disabled by moving a selector switch. Ambidexterity is provided without compromising feel and comfort for either hand.

Abstract: An ergonomic computer mouse includes an upright, primary finger-supporting surface for supporting all of the fingers of an upright hand in straight positions and in an upright stack. It also includes an opposite thumb-supporting surface for supporting the thumb. A hand holding the ergonomic computer mouse will be in a naturally upright and relaxed position, without requiring twisting of the hand, wrist, or forearm. As a result, fatigue, discomfort, and pain are minimized or eliminated even after a long period of continuous use.

Abstract: A combined handset and headset comprises a cylindrical speaker housing (20) which fits into the pinna (46) and contains a speaker (38). The speaker housing has an upper extension (24) which in turn has an end housing or pinna clamping part (28) slidably mounted thereto. The slidable housing contains a crossbar (14) for resting against the rear side of the pinna. The slidable housing is spring urged to a compacted position against the pinna so that it can clamp the pinna between it and the speaker housing so that the unit will retain itself on the pinna. The slidable housing can be pulled back and locked in an extended position where the crossbar is far enough from the cylindrical housing that the crossbar will be clear of the pinna so that the set can be used as a handset.