Switch coupled function blocks with additional direct coupling and internal data passing from input to output to facilitate more switched inputs to second block

Abstract

A reconfigurable integrated circuit includes a plurality of function blocks and a plurality of programmable switches to switchably connect between function blocks included in the plurality of function blocks. The plurality of function blocks each includes at least one operation unit or one memory unit. The plurality of function blocks each includes at least one data input port connected to at least on of the plurality of programmable switches and at least one data output port connected to at least one of the plurality of programmable switches. Further, at least a pair of function blocks included in the plurality of function blocks is connected without intervening the programmable switch and data being output from a direct output port included in one of the pair of function blocks can be input to a direct input port included in the other of the pair of function blocks.