METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DATA ANALYSIS IN A STATE MACHINE

A device includes a match element that includes a first data input configured to receive a first result, wherein the first result is of an analysis performed on at least a portion of a data stream by an element of a state machine. The match element also includes a second data input configured to receive a second result, wherein the second result is of an analysis performed on at least a portion of the data stream by another element of the state machine. The match element further includes an output configured to selectively provide the first result or the second result.