A multithreaded processor includes an instruction decoder for decoding retrieved
instructions to determine an instruction type for each of the retrieved instructions,
an integer unit coupled to the instruction decoder for processing integer type
instructions, and a vector unit coupled to the instruction decoder for processing
vector type instructions. A reduction unit is preferably associated with the vector
unit and receives parallel data elements processed in the vector unit. The reduction
unit generates a serial output from the parallel data elements. The processor may
be configured to execute at least control code, digital signal processor (DSP)
code, Java code and network processing code, and is therefore well-suited for use
in a convergence device. The processor is preferably configured to utilize token
triggered threading in conjunction with instruction pipelining.