Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing the efficiency of a dynamic read and/or write operation of a memory element within a computer system. The dynamic read and/or write operation may be performed when the computer system is in a functional mode or a test mode. The present invention may reduce the number of bits that are required to be serially shifted into a design by providing an auto-increment block. It is recognized that most multi-word access to a memory are made to sequential address locations within the memory. The auto-increment block takes advantage of this and automatically manipulates the address thereby not requiring subsequent addresses to be serially shifted into the design. Further, the control word may be stored within the design for subsequent accesses. That is, the support controller may shift a starting address and a control word into the design.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring the performance of a computer system. A number of performance monitoring hardware elements may be placed throughout a computer system to simultaneously monitor the performance of a number of distinct components within the computer system. An advantage of the present invention over a software based approach is that the present invention allows any node within the computer system to be monitored. In addition, the present invention does not run on the systems CPU and therefore the performance monitoring function does not decrease system performance while operating. Finally, because the present invention does not run on the system's CPU, the results of the performance monitoring function may be more accurate than a software base approach.

Abstract: A multiple phase clock distribution system for allowing a circuit load to be clocked on predetermined phases of a single clock signal is provided. A single phase clock is the triggering signal for each circuit load in the system, and enable signals are provided to each circuit load to allow the single phase clock to be recognized at only upon an active logic level of the chosen enable signal at a particular circuit load. The enable signals are of duration equal to one period of the single phase clock, and are activated nearly one period of the single phase clock before the triggering edge of the clock to provide as long of an enable signal stabilization period as possible before the single phase clock transitions to its active logic level. Enable signal combination circuitry exists to combine individual enable signals so that varying-frequency enable signals can be produced, and can therefore emulate a multiple phase clock regardless of the number of phases desired.