Abstract: Debugging microcode is facilitated by a hardware assist that takes over from the microcode the basic management of handling the data for a trace entry, thereby reducing the load on the microcode to a single micro-instruction per trace operation and thereby permitting more trace points to be included in the microcode shipped to the field.

Abstract: A system and method are provided which permit the direct transfer of information in message packet format directly from memory locations within one node of a data processing system directly to memory locations in one or more receiving nodes. This function is provided via communications adapters connected to each node and to a switched network to which are also attached nodes possessing likewise configured communications adapters which are capable of responding to a wide variety of message packet transfer protocol and modalities, all of which effect a direct memory to memory transfer without the need to copy data into intermediate buffers.

Abstract: A system and method are provided in which direct memory to memory transfer of message packet information is effected in a manner in which message packets are broadcast to and received at a plurality of data processing nodes. Special codes are established via parameters provided in communication tables which specify this functionality and which also provide signals to the operative communications adapters as to how this mode of transfer is to be handled, especially vis a vis error conditions that arise.

Abstract: A communications adapter is provided with an instruction processor which accepts instructions and data for the processing of communication parameters which are used to establish direct memory to memory transfer of message packets from one node to another node without the need to produce or store the desired information within intermediate buffer storage.

Abstract: A system and method are provided in which the concept of memory to memory message packet transfer is extended to the situation in which the information to be transferred is contained within a single message packet and is supplied from disparate memory locations at the source. It is significant in that information that is to be transferred can be assembled from distinct locations in memory without assembling these pieces together in a single, contiguous memory location. Amongst other advantages, this process also enables header information to be assembled quickly and efficiently.