We propose a practical technique to compile left-to-right pattern-matching of prioritised overlapping function definitions in equational languages to a matching automaton from which efficient code can be derived. First, a matching table is constructed using a compilation method similar to the technique that YACC employs to generate parsing tables. The matching table obtained allows for the pattern-matching process to be performed without any backtracking. Then, the known information about right sides of the equations is inserted in the matching table in order to speed-up the pattern-matching process. Most of the discussion assumes that the processed pattern set is left-linear, the non-linear case being handled by an additional pass following the matching stage. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Hardware is described for implementing the fast modular multiplication algorithm developed by P.L. Montgomery (1985). Comparison with previous techniques shows that this algorithm is up to twice as fast as the best currently available and is more suitable for alternative architectures. The gain in speed arises from the faster clock that results from simpler combinational logic.>