Apparatus with reconfigurable counter includes memory for storing plurality of counter configuration files which respectively define plurality of predetermined counters
US5109503A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 22, 1989 |
| Grant date | Apr 28, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 22, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03K21/00
- WIPO fieldBasic communication processes
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A reconfigurable counter is provided which includes first and second memories coupled via a common bus to a microprocessor which controls the process of configuring and reconfiguring the counter. A programmable hardware array, coupled to the microprocessor, is capable of being programmed to emulate a plurality of different counter types. The first memory stores a plurality of different counter configuration profiles, each of which corresponds to a different type counter configuraiton. In one or more of the selected counter types, different counter modes such as an up-down counter mode, pulse direction counter mode and A quad B counter modes are available. When the user indicates a selected counter profile to the microprocessor, the microprocessor writes the corresponding counter configuration profile from the first memory into the programmable hardware array using the parameters or modes of operation stored in the second memory until such time as the user indicates the choice of another counter profile to the microprocessor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.