Patent ID: 6928430
Filing Date: 2005-08-09
Classification: G06F,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A method of performing searching based on prefix matching, the method comprising the steps of: (a) receiving a search key; (b) addressably accessing one or more bit tables based on said search key, wherein said bit tables each include p-bits representing all possible prefixes, of one prefix length, which may match said search key and each said p-bit is either an enabled p-bit indicating that its said prefix does match said search key or said p-bit is a disabled p-bit indicating otherwise; (c) determining up to one said enabled p-bit from each said bit table to be a match p-bit; (d) selecting up to one said match p-bit to be a priority p-bit; and (e) deriving a match address based on consideration of said priority p-bit, wherein said match address is where a search result is stored.