Abstract. This paper describes real-time software features to support parallel processing. Synchronized channel communications are implemented as a basic operating system function for a distributed memory multi-processor StrongARM system. Inter-processor communications are handled using the ICR C416 packet router switch, which makes the system scalable. The system will provide a considerable layer of software abstraction and support to the end-users for developing their applications. The kernel layers, inter-process communications, control flow of application software, and the stages involved in application development for end-users, are described here. Some performance considerations are briefly discussed.