| 摘要 |
A serial chain of N sorting modules is arranged to sort batches of up to N items in a desired sequence in accordance with the value of the items. Each sorting module is arranged to compare two input items, to select one item for transfer to the next module, depending upon the relative value of the items, and to simultaneously accept the next item from the previous module. The value of the items can be numeric, alphabetic, et cetera. In accordance with the invention, each module is also arranged to detect the occurrence of an item having a unique value which indicates the beginning of a batch of items. Upon detection, each module passes the items in the same order as they were received, independent of their value. A chain of modules may be used to sort records each having data and an associated key by applying the keys to sorting circuits and the data to slave circuits. Record sorting can be used to interchange the time slots of a time-division multiplexed signal, or to rearrange empty slots such that they can be utilized. |
