Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing and accessing sparse data is disclosed. A sparse array circuit may receive information indicative of a request to perform a read operation on a memory circuit that includes multiple banks. The sparse array circuit may compare an address included in the received information to multiple entries that correspond to address locations in the memory circuit that store sparse data. In response to a determination that that the address matches a particular entry, the sparse array may generate one or more control signals that may disable the read operation, and cause a data control circuit to transmits the sparse data pattern.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for managing call billing records of communications network users. The apparatus includes a communications network, a gateway, a communications link, and a network processor. The communications network is operative to carry user calls. The gateway communicates with the network and is operative to collect call billing data from the network in a first data structure format. The communication link is coupled to the gateway. The network processor communicates with the gateway via the communication link. The network processor is operative to receive the collected call billing data in the first data structure format and convert the collected call billing data from the first data structure format to a second data structure format. A method is also provided.