Keith K Slack

Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Keith K. Slack from Rochester, MN**

Introduction

Keith K. Slack is a distinguished inventor based in Rochester, Minnesota, known for his significant contributions to the field of computer systems. With a remarkable tally of four patents, Slack's work focuses on enhancing program control and optimizing memory management in computing environments. His innovative solutions have made a lasting impact on how software interacts with computer hardware.

Latest Patents

Among Slack's latest inventions is the "Synchronous and conditional inter-program control apparatus for a computer system." This patent introduces a system that allows for the temporary suspension of an invoking program's execution while transferring control to an invoked program. This mechanism is initiated by a transfer initiation means that works in conjunction with a function control array, enabling a seamless transition between programs. The process includes a sophisticated management of call return elements (CREs) which maintains the state of the invoking program, efficiently handling tasks as they arise.

Another key patent from Slack is aimed at "Allocating and resolving next virtual pages for input/output." This innovation allows I/O device adapters to communicate with the CPU, facilitating the allocation of virtual pages in a paged virtual memory system. The solution ensures that data transfers between secondary storage and main storage operate smoothly, which is crucial for maintaining the performance of modern computing systems.

Career Highlights

Slack's journey in the field of innovation stems from his role at the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM). His work not only emphasizes technical expertise but also reflects a commitment to advancing the functionality of computer systems for various applications.

Collaborations

During his career, Keith K. Slack has collaborated with notable professionals, including Ronald Eugene Bodner and Thomas L. Crooks. These partnerships have further enriched his work and contributed to the successful development and implementation of his patents.

Conclusion

Keith K. Slack stands out as a prolific inventor whose contributions continue to shape the landscape of computing. His patents demonstrate a deep understanding of program control and memory management, making significant strides in enhancing the efficiency and functionality of computer systems. As technology continues to evolve, Slack's innovations will undoubtedly play a vital role in the future of computing.