Patent ID: 6553426
Filing Date: 2003-04-22
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A computer-implemented method for using a dummy instruction which has an embedded library value associated with a return point to identify one of a plurality of return points including an expected return point and an alternate return point, the computer-implemented method comprising:calling a function from within a routine while the routine is executing, wherein the function is separate from the routine; beginning an execution of the function; returning to the routine from the execution of the called function at a return point associated with the dummy instruction; when the execution of the called function returns normally such that the return point is an expected return point, then executing the dummy instruction using essentially no overhead; when the execution of the called function requires an alternate return such that the return point is an alternate return point, then reading the embedded library value; determining the alternate return point based only upon the reading; and executing an instruction in the routine at the return point.