How to Implement a Dynamic Circular Chasing Pointer Array of Integers?

In summary, the conversation discusses the implementation of a dynamic circular chasing pointer array of integers. The suggested code uses a circular fifo structure with functions for putting, getting, and peeking elements. It also includes a method for preventing overflow and checking if the array is empty.
  • #1
Rocket254
33
0
Circular chasing pointers...

Can anyone please point me towards a site that can explain how to implement a dynamic circular chasing pointer array of integers?

Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
I'm guessing here, but it sounds like you want to create a circular fifo using pointers (indexes could also be used, with no additional overhead on an Intel CPU, but possibly more overhead on other CPUs).

Code:
// for multi-tasking, a common mutex should be used in these functions
// if there's no need for overflow checking, iNumElements can be removed,
//    and an empty array is indicated when pGet == pPut

// if PutElement returns a 1, the array just went from empty to non-empty.

#define MAXSIZE 1024 // up to 1024 integers 

static          int aIntegers[MAXSIZE];
static constant int *pBase = &aIntegers[0];
static constant int *pEnd  = &aIntegers[MAXSIZE];
static          int *pPut  = &aIntegers[0];
static          int *pGet  = &aIntegers[0];
static          int iNumElements = 0;

int PutElement(int iElement)
{
    if(iNumElements == MAXSIZE)    // prevent overflow, caller code should check this
        return;
    *pPut++ = iElement
    if(pPut >= pEnd)
        pPut = pBase;
    iNumElements += 1;
    return(iNumElements);
}

int GetElement(void)
{
int iValue;

    if(iNumElements == 0)    // return 0 if empty array, calling code should do this check
        return(0);
    iNumElements -= 1;
    iValue = *pGet++;
    if(pGet >= pEnd)
        pGet = pBase;
    return(iValue);
}

int PeekElement(void)
{
    if(iNumElements == 0)    // return 0 if empty array, calling code should do this check
        return(0);
    return(*pGet);
}
 
Last edited:
  • #3
for any help!

I am not an expert in computer science or programming. However, I can offer some general information and advice on circular chasing pointers.

Circular chasing pointers are a type of data structure used in computer programming to create a circular linked list. This means that the elements in the list are connected in a circular pattern, with the last element pointing back to the first element. This can be useful in situations where you need to continuously loop through a list of elements, as it allows for efficient traversal and avoids the need for null pointers.

To implement a dynamic circular chasing pointer array of integers, you will need to use a combination of pointers and dynamic memory allocation. Pointers are variables that store the memory address of another variable, while dynamic memory allocation allows for the creation of data structures of varying sizes during runtime.

There are many online resources available that can provide step-by-step instructions on how to implement a dynamic circular chasing pointer array of integers in different programming languages. I suggest starting with a basic understanding of pointers and linked lists, and then searching for tutorials or guides specific to your programming language of choice.

Some tips for implementing a circular chasing pointer array of integers:

1. Start by defining a struct or class that represents a node in the circular linked list. This should contain an integer value and a pointer to the next node.

2. Use dynamic memory allocation to create the first node in the list and store its address in a pointer variable. This will be the head of your circular linked list.

3. Use a loop to create additional nodes and link them together in a circular pattern. Remember to update the pointer of the last node to point back to the head of the list.

4. To access or manipulate the elements in the list, you can use a pointer variable to traverse through the list in a circular fashion.

I hope this information helps you get started on implementing a dynamic circular chasing pointer array of integers. However, it is always best to consult with a computer science expert or refer to reliable online resources for more detailed and specific instructions. Good luck!
 

1. What are circular chasing pointers?

Circular chasing pointers are a type of data structure used in computer programming. They are pointers that continuously point to other pointers in a circular manner, creating a loop. This allows for efficient traversal and manipulation of data in a circular or cyclic manner.

2. How do circular chasing pointers work?

Circular chasing pointers work by continuously pointing to other pointers in a circular manner. This means that the last pointer in the chain will point back to the first pointer, creating a loop. This allows for efficient traversal and manipulation of data in a circular or cyclic manner.

3. What are the advantages of using circular chasing pointers?

One advantage of using circular chasing pointers is that they allow for efficient traversal and manipulation of circular or cyclic data structures. This can be useful in applications such as linked lists, graphs, and queues. Additionally, circular chasing pointers can save memory space as they do not need to store an extra pointer for the end of the data structure.

4. What are the potential drawbacks of circular chasing pointers?

One potential drawback of circular chasing pointers is that if they are not implemented properly, they can lead to an infinite loop. This can cause the program to crash or become stuck in an endless loop. Additionally, circular chasing pointers can be more complex to implement and debug compared to traditional linear pointers.

5. In what scenarios are circular chasing pointers most commonly used?

Circular chasing pointers are commonly used in scenarios where data needs to be traversed or manipulated in a circular or cyclic manner, such as in linked lists, graphs, and queues. They can also be useful in applications that involve circular or cyclic logic, such as circular buffers and circular queues.

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