Data processing system having a protocol timer for autonomously providing time based interrupts

摘要

A communications system includes multiple processors (14, 16) and a protocol timer (18). The protocol timer (18) controls the timing of events in the communications system and operates autonomously after it is loaded with initial instructions by one of the multiple processors (14, 16). The protocol timer (18) utilizes a frame event table (50) and a macro event table (46, 48) to trigger events and to generate interrupts of the multiple processors (14, 16). By allowing the protocol timer (18) to operate autonomously, the processors (14, 16) are relieved of timing control, and can be powered down when not in use, thus reducing power consumption of the communications system. Also, by using the protocol timer (18) to control the timing of events, software related errors and interrupt latencies are reduced.