Apparatus and associated methods for converting serial data pattern signals transmitted or suitable for transmission over a high speed synchronous serial transmission media, to parallel pattern output signals

摘要

A system is disclosed which includes methods and apparatus for transmitting asynchronous nonhomogeneous variable width parallel data pattern inputs in a format suitable for use with a synchronous high speed serial link. The system further includes means for receiving the serially transmitted data which is capable of reversing the process performed by the transmitter, i.e. the receiver is capable of outputting the nonhomogeneous variable width parallel data as originally input to the system. The receiver is further operative to identify output data by type. The disclosed means for transmitting and means for receiving are each cascadable. As a result the disclosed system permits a wide variety of parallel data patterns to be manipulated, transmitted and received sharing a single serial interface.