Apparatus with reconfigurable counter includes memory for storing plurality of counter configuration files which respectively define plurality of predetermined counters

A reconfigurable counter comprising:

• first memory means for simultaneously storing a pluralilty of counter configuration files which respectively define a plurality of predetermined different counters, each counter configuration file completely defining a predetermined counter having a different structural complexity;
• selecting means, operatively coupled to said first memory means, for selecting one of said counter configuration files for said counter;
• programmable logic means, responsive to said selecting means, for emulating the particular predetermined counter defined by the partiuclar counter configuration file selected by said selecting means;
• and
• writing means, coupled to said first memory means and said programmable logic means, for writing to said programmable logic means the particular predetermined counter configuration file selected by said selecting means, such that said programmable logic means emulates the particular predetermined counter defined by the particular counter configuration file selected by said selecting means.

The method of configuring a counter comprising the steps of:

• storing simultaneously in a first memory a plurality of counter configuration files which respectively define a plurality of predetermined different counters, each counter configuration file completely defining a predetermined counter having a different structural complexity;
• inputting selection information to said counter to indicate the selection of a particular one of said counter configuration files desired by a user of said counter;
• and
• storing said selection information in a second memory, and
• writing the counter configuration file indicated by said selection information to a programmable logic device such that said programmable logic device emulates the particular predetermined counter defined by the counter configuration file indicated by said selection information.

A method of configuring a counter comprising the steps of:

• storing simultaneously in a first memory a plurality of counter configuration files which respectively define a plurality of predetermined different counters, each counter configuration file completely defining a predetermined counter having a different structural complexity;
• selecting one of said counter configuration files for said counter, the counter configuration file thus selected being designated the selected counter configuration file;
• and
• writing the selected counter configuration file to a programmable logic device such that said programmable logic device emulates the particular predetermined counter defined by said selected counter configuration file.