Multiple pixel generator

Abstract

A system for generating multiple pixels in a single machine cycle employs a plurality of parallel vector generators. Each of the parallel generators is initialized with an error term which is calcualted in accordance with Bresenham's algorithm. The signs of these error terms are then used to determine the region within the first octant of the coordinate system which contains the function for which the pixels are to be generated. The region data, in turn, determine two selectable values for an increment which is to be added to a running error term for each of the parallel generators as multiple pixels are simultaneously generated. The choice of the two possible values to be added to the error term is dependent upon the sign of the error term itself. The sign of the running error term for each vector generator is utilized to form a sequence of binary data which represents the incremental changes in the pixel positions as the pixels are being generated. In a preferred embodiment, the binary data is translated into pixel position data which is then stored in a memory device. Any generated pixel data which cannot be stored in the machine cycle in which it is generated is re-routed for storage in later cycles.