Abstract: The invention relates to general purpose interprocessor communication implemented through a distributed shared memory network connecting a plurality of processors, computers, multiprocessors, and electronic and optical devices. The invention teaches an apparatus for shared memory based data transfer between a multiplicity of asynchronously operating devices (processors, computers, multiprocessors, etc.) each using possibly distinct memory address translation architectures. The invention further teaches shared virtual memory network communication and administration based on a unique network memory address translation architecture. This architecture is compatible with and augments the address translation and cache block replacement mechanisms of existing devices.

Abstract: The invention relates to general purpose interprocessor communication implemented through a distributed shared memory network connecting a plurality of processors, computers, multiprocessors, and electronic and optical devices. The invention teaches a method and means for shared memory based data transfer between a multiplicity of asynchronously operating devices (processors, computers, multiprocessors, etc.) each using possibly distinct memory address translation architectures. The invention further teaches shared virtual memory network communication and administration based on a unique network memory address translation architecture. This architecture is compatible with and augments the address translation and cache block replacement mechanisms of existing devices. More particularly, the invention teaches an adapter for insertion into an operating device, or node, whereby all address translation, memory mapping and packet generation can be implemented.