Ch 10: Parallel Computer Architecture

1. What is a Mainframe System?

A mainframe computer is a very large computer capable of handling and processing very large amounts of data quickly. They are used by large institutions, such as government agencies and large corporations.

2. What is Parallel Computing? - Performance & Examples

In this lesson, we'll take a look at parallel computing. We will learn what this means, its main performance characteristic, and some common examples of its use.

3. What is Distributed Computing? - Principles, Environments & Applications

Some computing tasks require the power of multiple computers. Learn how distributed computing coordinates tasks performed on multiple computers at the same time.

4. What Is Multiprocessing? - Definition, Architecture & Examples

Multiprocessing is the capability of a computer to multitask, or execute more than one program or process at the same time. In this lesson, we will learn about computers and their multiprocessing abilities.

5. Grid Computing: Definition, Components & Examples

In this lesson, we'll define Grid Computing, explore its major components, and give some examples of its use. At the end, you should have a good understanding of this important technique.

6. Flynn's Architecture Taxonomy: Types & Alternatives

One of the challenges of parallel computing is that there are many ways to establish a task. One of the choices when building a parallel system is its architecture. Flynn's taxonomy classifies different types of parallel architectures.

7. How Distributed Cache Works: Design & Architecture

In this lesson, we will learn about the concept of caching and the definition and significance of distributed caching. We will look at the design and architecture of different types of distributed caching.

8. Superscalar & VLIW Architectures: Characteristics, Limitations & Functions

This lesson explains the Superscalar and VLIW (Very Long Instruction Word) architectures, their characteristics and limitations. Both superscalar and VLIW architectures are used in parallel processing for executing pipelined instructions.

9. Vector Processors: Characteristics, Use & Examples

In this lesson, we learn the characteristics and advantages of using vector processors. We will learn the characteristics of a vector and see through pseudo-code how vectoring a loop helps with faster program execution.

10. Interconnection Networks: Role & Types

Parallel processing is the simultaneous execution of different tasks by a computer processor. In this lesson, we'll learn about static and dynamic interconnection networks for connecting the different elements for parallel processing.

11. GPGPU: Definition, Differences & Example

GPUs are not just for games and other rendering services anymore. This lesson will explain what a GPGPU is, what makes it different, and why it is important.

12. Distributed Parallel Computing: Characteristics, Uses & Example

In this lesson, we will learn what Distributed Parallel Computing systems are and their benefits. We will discover a few examples of Distributed Parallel Computing systems that we use every day. Additionally, we will explore the SETI project that uses millions of user computers across the world for a scientific purpose.