polyinterrupts

Polyinterrupts refer to a programming technique where a single interrupt service routine (ISR) handles multiple distinct interrupt sources. Instead of having a separate ISR for each potential interrupt, a central ISR is designed to identify which specific interrupt occurred and then dispatch control to the appropriate sub-routine or logic for that interrupt. This can be a way to reduce the overhead associated with setting up and calling many individual ISRs, especially in systems with a large number of interrupt-generating hardware components.

The implementation of polyinterrupts typically involves a shared interrupt vector or a status register. When an interrupt signal is received, the ISR reads this shared information to determine the origin of the interrupt. Based on this determination, it can then execute tailored code. For example, in a microcontroller, a single interrupt line might be connected to several peripheral devices. The polyinterrupt ISR would check status bits from each peripheral to know which one requires attention. This approach can simplify interrupt management and potentially improve performance by reducing context switching if implemented efficiently. However, it also requires careful design to ensure that interrupt priorities are correctly handled and that the ISR does not become overly complex or slow.