Abstract: A method and apparatus for optimizing processing of graphics data. An equation for use in processing graphics data is simplified by identifying variables in the equation that remain constant over a set of repeated operations. This simplified equation is implemented in a processing unit containing logic units, wherein the logic units are used to perform a graphics operation in which a set of constants is required for the graphics operation. A first set of connections is present in which these connections connect the logic units to each other, wherein the first set of connections are used to configure the plurality of logic units to determine the set of constants. A second set of connections connecting the logic units are present. This set of connections is used to configure the logic units to perform the graphics operation in which the graphics operation using the constants determined through the first set of connections.

Abstract: A method and apparatus in a data processing system for processing graphics data in a processing element. A command is received. A determination is then made as to whether the command affects processing of current graphics data within the processing element. The command is sent to a subsequent processing element if the processing element is unaffected by the command. The command is held without affecting the processing element if the command affects processing of the current graphics data within the processing element until processing of the current graphics data has completed.

Abstract: A computer system has a graphics subsystem employing a rasterizer and a frame buffer, with a digital-to-analog converter for producing drive signals to a video display. A bus interface acts as a gateway between a PCI bus and the graphics subsystem; this interface manages commands and DMAs passing between the host processor and various parts of the graphics subsystem. Within the interface, two command FIFOs are employed, one for storing commands/data sent from the host for 2D display (window management) and another for 3D applications. Using two command FIFOs eliminates the need for host semaphore, FIFO draining, and the latency associated with these operations. Timers are provided in the interface, associated with the two command FIFOs, to manage and regulate the frequency with which the system automatically switches between 2D and 3D FIFO processing. Host intervention is minimized by use of a context macro store for holding locally the sequences for context save and context restore which are used repeatedly.