Michael F Spear

Title: Michael F. Spear: Innovator in Hardware Acceleration and Software Transactional Memory

Introduction

Michael F. Spear is a notable inventor based in Rochester, NY (US), recognized for his contributions to the field of hardware acceleration and software transactional memory. With a total of 2 patents, he has made significant strides in optimizing the performance of transactions controlled by software.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is titled "System and method for hardware acceleration of a software transactional memory." This invention focuses on a transactional memory technique where hardware optimizes the performance of transactions fundamentally controlled by software. The hardware support reduces the overhead of common transactional memory tasks such as conflict detection, validation, and data isolation for bounded transactions. The system includes an alert-on-update mechanism for fast software-controlled conflict detection and programmable data isolation, allowing potentially conflicting readers and writers to proceed concurrently under software control.

Another significant patent is "Configuration of isolated extensions and device drivers." This patent addresses the execution of untrusted device drivers within a software system. It outlines how the execution can be initiated when an untrusted device driver, consisting of executable instructions, is obtained. The computing resources for executing the device driver are determined from a device-driver manifest, which may include hardware resources, memory, input/output ports, interrupt request lines, and inter-process communication channels. Trusted local access objects are utilized by the untrusted device driver to access these computing resources.

Career Highlights

Michael F. Spear has worked with prestigious organizations such as the University of Rochester and Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC. His experience in these institutions has contributed to his expertise in the field of technology and innovation.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Michael has collaborated with notable individuals, including Michael L. Scott and Sandhya Dwarkadas. These collaborations have further enriched his work and contributions to the field.

Conclusion

Michael F. Spear is a distinguished inventor whose work in hardware acceleration and software transactional memory has paved the way for advancements in technology. His patents reflect a deep understanding of optimizing software performance through innovative hardware solutions.