a data queue optimized for receiving loosely packed graphics data and suitable for use in a computer graphics system is described . the data queue operates on first - in - first - out principals , and has a variable width input and output . the variable width on the input side facilitates the reception and storage of loosely packed data . the variable width output allows for the single - cycle output of multi - word data . packing of the data occurs on the write - side of the fifo structure .