1. A programmable application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for implementing operations that involve a plurality of computational functions, comprising: a. a plurality of fixed functions each of which is parameterized such that its operational characteristics are programmable using different operating parameters, wherein each of the plurality of fixed functions inputs and outputs data in accordance with common interface rules; and b. programmable switch logic that is configurable to link two or more of the fixed functions in a sequence to perform desired operations.