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Using firmware to enhance the functionality of a controller

  • US 5,937,200 A
  • Filed: 11/21/1997
  • Issued: 08/10/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/21/1997
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A utility for adapting a controller for handling a first set of higher-priority functions and a second set of lower-priority functions using firmware, the utility comprising:

  • means for receiving a notification of a function to be performed;

    means for determining whether the function to be performed is one of the first set of higher-priority functions or one of the second set of lower-priority functions;

    means for executing the function associated with the notification if the notification is for one of the first set of higher-priority functions;

    means for starting a timer if the notification is for one of the first set of lower-priority functions and the timer has not already been started;

    means for beginning execution of the function associated with the notification after starting the timer if the notification is for one of the first set of lower-priority functions;

    means for aborting the function if not completed before expiration of the timer, and storing an address of a point of abortion of the function in a data return vector; and

    means for resuming execution of the function if previously aborted due to the expiration of the timer upon reception of a subsequent notification, by continuation at the address stored by the data return vector.

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