Abstract: A method of detecting stack overflows includes the following steps: storing in at least one dedicated register at least one data item chosen from: a data item (SPHaut) indicating a maximum permitted value for a stack pointer, and a data item (SPBas) indicating a minimum permitted value for said stack pointer; effecting a comparison between a current value (SP) or past value (SPMin, SPMax) of said stack pointer and said data item or each of said data items; and generating a stack overflow exception if said comparison indicates that said current or past value of said stack pointer is greater than said maximum permitted value or less than said minimum permitted value. A processor for implementing such a method is also provided.

Abstract: A method of detecting stack overflows includes the following steps: storing in at least one dedicated register at least one data item chosen from: a data item (SPHaut) indicating a maximum permitted value for a stack pointer, and a data item (SPBas) indicating a minimum permitted value for said stack pointer; effecting a comparison between a current value (SP) or past value (SPMin, SPMax) of said stack pointer and said data item or each of said data items; and generating a stack overflow exception if said comparison indicates that said current or past value of said stack pointer is greater than said maximum permitted value or less than said minimum permitted value. A processor for implementing such a method is also provided.

Abstract: A processor on an electronic microchip is capable of executing mathematical processes, each of said processes being associated with a priority, and includes means for the management of the processes, the means for the management of the processes taking the form of hardware, the management of the processes comprising the activation and the suspension of the processes and the management of the execution of the processes according to their priorities.