A Prototype Two-Level Multicomputer Study
Abstract
The objectives of this Project were the rapid development and the evaluation of a high-performance prototype of a new type of multicomputer that promised many advantages for defense applications. This architecture is called a two-level multicomputer because each node employs a primary processor for message handling and other runtime tasks, and one or more secondary processors for performing the user computation. The specific, anticipated advantages of this node architecture include: low software overhead in message handling, because the primary processor is dedicated to packet handling and other runtime functions, so that the secondary processors can concentrate on the user's computation; high performance per unit cost, power, and size, due to the efficiency of the architecture and the level of integration in its implementation; very rapid hardware and software development of nodes that exploit the latest processor chips as the secondary processor; the ability to support heterogeneous configurations in embedded applications. Technology transition was integrated throughout this project, from the SAN chip set, to the two-level multicomputer, to its programming systems to its applications. This includes: The UC Berkeley NOW, a cluster of SPARC workstations with Myrinet and the "hotbot" (www.hotbot.com) search engine produced by Inktomi Corp, a commercial spinoff of the Berkeley NOW project, and NSWC Dahlgren for distributed computing for AEGIS ships wing actual engagement codes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA360404
Entities
People
- Charles L. Seitz