Context switching for vector transfer unit

Abstract

A vector transfer unit for handling transfers of vector data between a memory and a data processor by one or more application programs in a computer system. A compiler identifies the use of vector data in the application program and implements one or more vector instructions for transferring the vector data between memory and registers used to perform calculations on the vector data. The compiler also schedules transfers of portions of the vector data required in a calculation so that calculations on a portion of the vector data are performed while a subsequent portion of the vector data is transferred. A vector buffer pool is partitioned into one or more vector buffers based on configuration information including the number of vectors buffers required by an application program and the size required for each vector buffer. The vector buffers are allocated for exclusive use by an application program that is executing in the data processor. During a context switch between application programs, a synchronization instruction is used to allow the instructions issued by one application program to finish before any transfer instructions issued by the second application program may begin. Instructions for indicating whether the vector buffer pool is available for use are also included.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.