Multi Processor Classification
Multi Processor Classification
Multiprocessor Architectures
Advanced Computer Architecture
1
Introduction
• Key attributes of “multiprocessors”:-
– Single computer that includes multiple processors
– Processors may communicate at various levels
• Message passing or shared memory
• Multiprocessor and Multicomputer systems
– Similar goal, to achieve concurrency
– Multiple computer system consist of several autonomous computers
– Multiprocessor system is controlled by single operating system which
provides mechanism for interactions among processors
• Architectural models
– Tightly coupled multiprocessor
– Loosely coupled multiprocessor
2
Loosely coupled multiprocessor
• Each processor has its own set of I/O devices and memory
where it accesses most of its instructions and data
• Computer Module: Processor, I/O interface and memory
Input/Output
Local memory (I/O)
Processor (LM)
(P)
Channel and
Arbiter Switch
(CAS)
3
Loosely coupled multiprocessor contd.
• Inter-process communicate over different module happens by
exchange of messages, using message transfer system (MTS)
• Distributed system, degree of coupling is loose
• Degree of memory conflicts is less
LM I/O LM I/O
P P
CAS CAS
Computer Module 0 ………….. Computer Module N-1
4
Loosely coupled multiprocessor contd.
• Inter module communication
– Channel arbiter and switch (CAS)
– Arbiter decide when requests from two or more computer
module collide in accessing a physical segment of MTS
• Message Transfer System (MTS)
– Time based or shared memory
– Important factor that determines performance
5
Tightly coupled multiprocessor
• TCS are used when high speed or real time
processing is desired
• Models:-
– Without private cache
– With private cache
6
Tightly coupled multiprocessor contd.
Interrupt signal
Interconnection network
(ISIN) Input Output
channels
d-1
p-1 . . disks
Processors .. Input/Output . .
.. . .
.. Interconnection network . .
0 (IOPIN) . .
0
Processor Memory
Interconnection network
(PMIN)
Processor Memory
Interconnection network
(PMIN)
10
Tightly coupled multiprocessor contd.
• Processor types
– Homogeneous, if all processors perform same
function
– Heterogeneous, if processors perform different
functions
Note: Two functionally same processor may differ
along other parameters like I/O, memory size,