Software Deficiency Issues Confronting the Utilization of 'Non-von Neumann' Architectures
Abstract
Report summarizes work of the current state-of-the-art in software engineering issues confronting the effective implementation of non-sequential architecture-based computers. Since these architectures do not conform to the model of the von Neumann machine, the Non-von Neumann computers. It is apparent that utilization of Non-von Neumann computer systems is necessary to many of today's as well as the future's computational requirements. Advances in computer architecture technology, VLSI technology, and interconnection network topologies, to name but a few, have led to a multitude of relatively inexpensive but very powerful high performance processors. The development and utilization of Non-von Neumann systems requires a strong knowledge of the development and utilization of Non-von Neumann systems requires a strong knowledge of the underlying hardware and software structures. However, the largest problem in utilizing Non-von Neumann computers is not in the hardware, but in the software where software engineering remains oriented towards conventional von Neumann methodologies. Since these machines are highly concurrent in nature, a deep- rooted understanding is necessary to determine exactly what software engineering tools and techniques are necessary for their exploitation. Many software engineering disciplines need to be addressed, including the choice of a computer language, the necessity of a truly parallel operating system, the availability and use of existing tools, and the need for the development of new tools and techniques, such as the development of an optimizing compiler.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA207268
Entities
People
- Paul M. Engelhart
Organizations
- Rome Laboratory