Commonly used methods of signal processing are often too complex and many of them induce time delay between the original and processed signal. A problem arises how to supply the controller with quality input signals without substantial delay taking limited computing power of the controller's hardware into account. A possible solution based on a signal pre-processing subsystem (SPS) delivering quality input signals to the controller is described in this paper. Concept of the SPS is based on a hardware unit with a real-time operating system managing a composition of application tasks. Hardware and software structure of the SPS is composed to enable to utilize the following specific signal processing strategy. Different signal processing methods process a particular signal simultaneously and an algorithm of continuous decision making provides the momentary best possible result in the form of a weighted combination of outputs generated by single signal processing methods. Solution is intended for enhancement of the automatic thickness/gauge control (AGC) for cold rolling mills.