Switchcover means and method for dual mode microprocessor system

摘要

In a dual microprocessor system, a processor transfer, or swap, arrangement and method therefor are disclosed for transferring control from one processor to another. The present invention involves the temporary suspension of operation of a first microprocessor which relinquishes system control and the initiation of operation of a second microprocessor which may begin operation either where it last left off or may execute a new operating routine in accordance with instructions provided by the first microprocessor. Provision is made for automatically handing over system control to the second microprocessor upon the occurrence of an interrupt. In addition, the microprocessor not exercising system control is rendered unresponsive to the occurrence of a program interrupt allowing it to continue opration unaffected by the program interrupt following its reactivation.