A data processing device includes an electronic processor responsive to a context
signal and operable in alternative processing contexts identified by the context
signal. First and second registers are connected to the electronic processor to
participate in one processing context while retaining information from another
processing context until a return thereto. A context switching circuit is connected
to the first and second registers and operates to selectively control input and
output operations of the registers to and from the electronic processor depending
on the processing context. Other devices, systems and methods are also disclosed.