Fault tolerant operation of multiprocessor systems - has signature vectors generated by each processor for comparison to identify fault

摘要

A fault tolerant multiprocessor system is based upon a number of identical processors, each one of which has a CPU (1), ROM (4), RAM (5), timer (6), I/O interface (12) and a communication interface (11). Each of the processors has an error independent signature switching circuit (10) that are heirarchically connected to the highest priority processor. The signature circuit operates to provide automatic monitoring of the processor, combined with testing and isolation of the unit in the event of a fault being identified. In association with the processor, the signature controls a cycle that results in fault correction. The control algorithm is based upon comparison of signature values. ADVANTAGE - Provides high fault-tolerant mode of operation.