An associative array processor is described wherein an array (ARRAY) of associative processing cells is configured according to a format defined by configuration bits which perform functions previously performed by external masks. The array of associative processing cells is intervened by five paths, the minimum number of interconnections between adjacent horizontal cells. A transversal horizontal multiplexer is described which allows an arbitrary number of these devices to be connected to series. Each of these transversal horizontal multiplexers forms a part of a processing cell and allows a variety of communications between adjacent processing cells.