System for supplying streams of data to multiple users by distributing a

Abstract

A multiple user data storage, retrieval and distribution system containing a parallel processing computer system that forms a digital information server. The server contains a plurality of parallel processors each connected to a information storage device. The user data is stored in a distributed manner amongst the information storage devices. The distribution system dynamically allocates the users to the system based upon the user's requested operating mode. As such, during successive user service periods, all the users are supplied their requested data. The system also provides error detection and correction for the data requested by the users. Furthermore, additional data can be added to the information storage devices during each service period and select information storage devices can be recalibrated without affecting system operation. Even though the system allocates users dynamically such that the data is retrieved from the information storage devices in an arbitrary order, the system contains an output timing sequencer that generates output data in a predefined order no matter the order in which the data is retrieved from the information storage devices. The disclosed apparatus and method find applicability in video servers, medical imaging, special effects and animation and location based entertainment systems among other applications.