Device initializing system with programmable array logic configured to cause non-volatile memory to output address and data information to the device in a prescribed sequence

摘要

A low-cost implementation of a switching system using a multiport network switch avoids the necessity of a microprocessor by using programmable array logic (PAL) configured to drive a non-volatile memory. The PAL includes an address generator state machine, a PCI control signal state machine, and an interrupt state machine. The non-volatile memory sequentially outputs address and data information, under the control of the address generator state machine, onto a bus connected to the network switch in order to initialize the network switch with initialization and configuration data. The PCI control signal state machine provides control signals causing the output address and data information to mimic a PCI burst transfer. Once the network switch has been configured, the non-volatile memory outputs a start command causing the network switch to begin running in a free-running mode. A memory overflow interrupt in the network switch is also enabled, causing the PAL to reset the network switch if overloaded.