A function interface system for use with a fast pattern processor having an internal function bus and an external function bus and a method of operating the same. In one embodiment, the function interface system includes a controller arbitration subsystem configured to process an issued function request received from at least one of the internal function bus and the external function bus and a dispatch subsystem configured to retrieve the issued function request and dispatch the issued function request to at least one associated co-processor via the controller arbitration subsystem.