A Prototype Embedded Microprocessor Interconnect for Distributed and Parallel Computing

Abstract

Parallel computing is currently undergoing a transition from a niche use to widespread acceptance due to new, computationally intensive applications and multi-core processors. While parallel processing is an invaluable tool for increasing performance, more time and expertise are required to develop a parallel system than are required for sequential systems. This paper discusses a toolkit currently in development that will simplify both the hardware and software development of embedded distributed and parallel systems. The hardware interconnection mechanism uses the Serial Peripheral Interface as a physical medium and provides routing and management services for the system. The topics in this paper are primarily limited to the interconnection aspect of the toolkit.

Keywords

• Parallel Computing
• Interconnection Networks
• Embedded Systems