Vector information shifting array

Claim 1

In a content addressable storage array having a plurality of semiconductor data storage cells arranged in word groups and having means for operating the array to transfer data between selected word groups and an input/output register means, the combination with at least certain of the cell word groups comprising: a plurality of transfer gates arranged in word groups corresponding to the cell word groups, each of said transfer gates having inputs connected directly to outputs of a respective cell and each having outputs connected directly to inputs of a plurality of cells adjacent its respective cell for transferring data directly between its respective cell and said plurality of adjacent cells, a group of control signal lines for each word group of gates, each group of lines adapted to receive control signals for transferring data directly from the cells of one of said certain cell word groups to the gates of its respective gate word group and from the latter gates to the adjacent cells of a desired one of said certain cell word groups, whereby data in cell word groups can be transferred simultaneously to adjacent cell word groups or alternately shifted right or left.