Method of determining a scaling factor

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A method of determining the scaling factor for a signed n bit binary number where n = 2 e, includes the steps of dividing the number into a plurality of subgroups of at, least two bits each; providing a plurality of subunits holding the respective subgroups of, bits; and arranging the subunits in a hierarchical tree structure of units. Each unit of a, superior level receives inputs from units of a lower level and each unit , produces first, second and third output signals. The first output signal represents the most significant bit, of the units in the associated hierarchy the second signal indicates whether , the bits in the associated hierarchy have the same value and the third signal …