Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method for sorting. The method comprises the steps of forming a decision tree comprised of at least a first level having at least a first entry with either a first result or a second result corresponding to values as they fill a queue. Then, there is the step of reading the result in the first entry of the first level of the decision tree. Next, there is the step of choosing the value in the first entry of the first level from the queue corresponding to the result in the first entry. The present invention comprises a priority queue. The priority queue comprises an array in which elements are stored. Also, the priority queue comprises a controller which stores the elements in the array with no memory reads and a constant number of memory writes so a smallest element in the array can be identified.

Abstract: A method for scheduling when a server provides service to entities. The method includes the steps of identifying when a first entity requests service from the server. Next there is the step of providing service to an entity, such as a first entity or a second entity, as a function of virtual time. A scheduler for controlling when a server provides service to entities. The scheduler comprises a memory having times which are a function of when entities request service from the server. The scheduler is also comprised of a virtual clock that keeps track of time. The scheduler is also comprised of a controller which causes an entity to receive service from the server as a function of virtual time. Rate can also be utilized.

Abstract: A method for scheduling when a server provides service to entities. The method includes the steps of identifying when a first entity requests service from the server. Next there is the step of providing service to an entity, such as a first entity or a second entity, as a function of when the entity requests service from the server. A scheduler for controlling when a server provides service to entities. The scheduler includes a memory having times which are a function of when entities request service from the server. The scheduler also includes a virtual clock that keeps track of time as a function of when entities request service from the server. The scheduler also includes a controller which causes an entity to receive service from the server as a function of when the entity requests service from the server. A scheduler for scheduling when N entities each of which has a weight w, where N is an integer .ltoreq.1 and w is a real number, are served by a server.

Abstract: A scheduler for controlling when N entities, where N is an integer greater than or equal to one, are operated upon by a server. The scheduler includes a starting time memory. The starting time memory has only arriving times which are greater than virtual time. The scheduler also includes a finishing time memory. The finishing time memory has finishing times of the N entities whose starting times are less than or equal to virtual time. Additionally, the scheduler includes a virtual clock that keeps track of virtual time so the arriving times and finishing times can be identified. Moreover, the scheduler is also comprised of a controller for choosing entities to be operated upon by the server from the finishing time memory. A method of scheduling when a server provides service to entities.

Abstract: A linked list for multicast in an ATM network. The linked list comprises a first cell. The linked list also comprises a plurality of read pointers. Each read pointer is associated with a port. Each read pointer points to the first cell. A multicast system for an ATM network. The system comprises a first port through which a cell passes. The system also comprises a first read pointer associated with the first port. The multicast system additionally comprises at least a second port through which the cell passes. There is at least a second read pointer associated with the second port. The multicast system is comprised of a cell to which each read pointer points. Furthermore, the multicast system is comprised of a controller for controlling when a read pointer reads a cell. The system preferably includes a plurality of cells. Each cell has a cell pointer pointing to a next cell. The plurality of cells forms a linked list.