Abstract: A data processor apparatus comprises a plurality of processor elements, a memory having a plurality of parts, and a first switching element associated with the first processor element for switchably coupling the first processor element to its associated memory part for at least one of read and write access.

Abstract: A data processor apparatus comprises a plurality of processor elements, a memory having a plurality of parts, and a first switching element associated with the first processor element for switchably coupling the first processor element to its associated memory part for at least one of read and write access.

Abstract: A switching element for switchably coupling a two-dimensional array of circuit elements comprises an input, an output, means for switchably coupling the input to the output; a first input/output port, a second input/output port, a third input/output port, and a fourth input/output port, each input/output port being switchably coupled to the input, the output, and each other, wherein the first and third input/output ports are spaced apart along a first axis, and the second and fourth input/output ports are spaced apart along a second axis, wherein the second axis traverses the first axis between the first and third input/output ports.

Abstract: A data processor comprises an array of processor elements and a memory accessible by each processor element. An array of switching elements is provided, each associated with a processor element, the switching elements being interconnected to enable data to be transferred between different segments of memory associated with different processor elements or between different processor elements in the array.

Abstract: The invention provides ESD protection for IC's while isolating the different power supplies from one another. A network in the IC has a plurality of circuit cells through which the IC receives power. Each circuit cell provides localized electrostatic discharge protection. With each circuit cell coupled to a global node through a dual current direction coupling network and with portions of the global node physically separating the circuit cells, any noise, interference, or stray ESD current generated by a circuit cell is shunted away from other circuit cells to the global node. An off-chip ground connection coupled to the global node provides a destination for this noise or interference.

Abstract: The invention provides ESD protection for IC's while isolating the different power supplies from one another. A network in the IC has a plurality of circuit cells through which the IC receives power. Each circuit cell provides localized electrostatic discharge protection. With each circuit cell coupled to a global node through a dual current direction coupling network and with portions of the global node physically separating the circuit cells, any noise, interference, or stray ESD current generated by a circuit cell is shunted away from other circuit cells to the global node. An off-chip ground connection coupled to the global node provides a destination for this noise or interference.