Apparatus and method for handling exception signals in a computing system

Abstract

Method and apparatus for the handling of exception signals in combination particularly with the dynamic conversion of binary code executable by a one computing platform into binary code executed instead by another computing platform. In one exemplary aspect, an exception handling unit (195, 220, 230) selectively handles some exception signals with respect to a target state (320) and handles otherexception signals with respect to a subject state (330) derived from the target state (320). A plurality of signal handling sub-units (223) are arranged to selectively process the exception signal (310) with respect to the target state (320) and output a request either to return to execution or to pass on the exception signal (310). A delivery path selection unit (222) is arranged to determine a delivery path of the exception signal (310) to a selected group of the plurality of signal handling sub-units (223). A signal control unit (221 ) is arranged to deliver the exception signal (310) in turn to each of the selected group of signal handling sub-units (223) according to the delivery path and (i) where a respective one of the signal handling sub-units (223) requests the return to execution then to return to execution according to the target state (320); and (ii) where the signal handling sub- unit (223) requests to pass on the exception signal (310) then to pass on the exception signal (310) to a subsequent one of the selected group of signal handling sub-units (223) according to the delivery path and, where no further of the signal handling sub-units are specified in the delivery path, then to deliver the exception signal (310) to a subject-side exception handler unit (230).

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of computers and computer systems, and more particularly, to methods and devices for handling abnormal signals in context switching of program codes, such as those useful in code translators, emulators and accelerators. More specifically, example embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and apparatus for processing exception signals in conjunction with dynamic conversion of binary code executable by one computing platform to binary code executable by another computing platform. Background technique [0002] Central processing units (CPUs), or processors, are at the heart of all modern computing systems. The processor executes the instructions of the computer program, thus enabling the computer to perform useful work. In modern life, CPUs are ubiquitous in all forms of digital devices, not just dedicated to computing machines such as personal computers, laptops, and PDAs. Modern microp...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0003] Because each type of processor has its own unique instruction set architecture (ISA), the problem arises that program code executable by one type of processor will generally not be executable on other types of processors

[0020] The problem also arises that the subject code may have been written to use signals extensively, which is not currently supported by the number or types of signals available on the target computing platform

Images