Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing trace fault information to a trace fault handler. The trace fault information is evaluated prior to beginning execution of a micro code flow. The evaluated trace fault information is stored in a buffer and the micro code flow is executed. While the micro code flow is executing, if a micro code instruction of the micro code flow is executed that enables tracing, the trace fault information stored in the buffer is written to a data storage area. The data storage area is accessible to the trace fault handler.

Abstract: A superscalar processor with a precise fault mechanism. Instructions are grouped into a cluster of instructions to be executed simultaneously by the superscalar processor. The cluster is formed from consecutively sequenced instructions according to a predetermined set of grouping rules. If at least one previously executed instruction exists, the consecutively sequenced instructions begin with an initial instruction that is the first instruction following a last previously executed instruction. Each instruction of the cluster is decoded and faulting instructions, if any, of the cluster are determined. Faulting instructions are instructions having an associated trace fault. If no faulting instructions were found, each instruction in the cluster is executed simultaneously. If, however, at least one faulting instruction was found, a break faulting instruction is determined. The break faulting instruction is the first faulting instruction in the consecutive sequence of the cluster instructions.

Abstract: A processor uses between-instruction in-circuit emulation breaks to implement complex in-circuit emulation features. The processor uses a bit in hardware that triggers a between-instruction break to in-circuit emulation to permit complex in-circuit emulation reactions such as break after processor reset or break on process switch.

Abstract: A torque converter drive unit in which an input shaft driven by a mechanically powered torque converter is frictionally coupled with an output shaft such that rotation of the input shaft in one direction only will cause corresponding rotation of the output shaft, rotation of the output shaft being prevented by operation of an electric solenoid controlled braking mechanism on the output shaft, thereby permitting instantaneous coupling of the input shaft and output shaft for operation of a racing vehicle from a starting line.