APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INCREASED SYSTEM BUS UTILIZATION IN A DATA PROCESSING SYSTEM

摘要

In a data processing system having a multiple write command and a masked write command, a plurality of signal groups can be transferred from a data processing subsystem to a memory unit on consecutive system cycles. Associated with each signal group and applied to lines used to transfer mask signals are control signals that designate when the associated signal group is to stored in the memory unit. When the multiple write command is issued, the apparatus coupled to the mask signal lines is enabled and the control signals can be identified. When the control signals are identified, the operation storing the associated signal group is inhibited. The apparatus and command signals are generally already available to implement this invention. However, the apparatus and commands are used in a novel manner.