Abstract: A universal programmable data communication connection system which is user programmable to provide a selective data path between one or more data source and one or more data destination. The data connection system allows the user to "patch" signals from source to destination with simple commands. The system then provides the data path and conversion processes through selection among prestored process tasks or "softblocks" which are connected to "sockets" by software "wires". Within a finite capacity, one or more data paths of varying degrees of complexity may be connected or disconnected, at operator command, without interruption of existing or non-altered system connections and functions. If the data source and data destination are of different format and/or protocol, the connection system can also provides the corresponding data processing to maintain an uninterrupted flow of data.