Patent ID: 6601120
Filing Date: 2003-07-29
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A method for implementing a scalable multi-reader/single-writer lock within a computer system, comprising the steps of:(1) allocating a registry data structure corresponding to a resource within the computer system; (2) allocating a client data structure, linked to said registry data structure, corresponding to a client within the computer system which requires read access to said resource, wherein said client data structure comprises a read enable flag initialized to a first enable state, and a read use flag initialized to a first use state; (3) determining, by said client, whether said read enable flag is set to said first enable state; (4) setting, by said client, said read use flag to a second use state when the determination of step (3) is positive; (5) performing, by said client, at least one read operation on said resource; and (6) setting, by said client, said read use flag to said first use state when step (5) is completed; whereby the scalable multi-reader/single-writer lock allows readers to proceed in parallel without contending for a common resource within the computer system.