A multiprocessor data processing system includes first and second processors coupled to an interconnect and to a global promotion facility containing at least one promotion bit field. The first processor initiates execution of a branch-type instruction to request acquisition of a promotion bit field...http://www.google.ca/patents/US6925551?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US6925551 - Method, apparatus and system for accessing a global promotion facility through execution of a branch-type instruction
