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Introduction
Array Processor are also known as vector processors or multiprocessors which performs
computations on large array of data. These are two types of Array Processors: SIMD Array
Processor, Attached and Array Processor, We need computers that can solve mathematical issues
for us which include, floating-point numbers quickly or arithmetic operations on the large arrays
of integers. The general-purpose computer would use loops to operate on floating-point numbers
or on an array of integers. But, for large array using loop would cause overhead to the processor.
Difference between general processing and array processing
Look at the figure below, and compare the vector processing with the general computer
processing, you will notice the difference. Below, instructions in both the blocks are set to add
two arrays and store the result in the third array.
Parallel Processing
Parallel processing is a term used to denote a large class of techniques that are used to
provide simultaneous data processing tasks for the purpose of increasing the
computational speed of computer, Parallel processing at a higher level of complexity
can be achieved by having a multiplicity of functional units that perform identical or
different operation simultaneously.
The sequence of instructions read from memory constitutes an instruction stream. The
operations performed on the data in the processor constitutes a data stream. Parallel
processing may occur in the instruction stream, in the data stream, or in both. Flynn's
classification divides computers into four major groups as follows:
1.Single instruction stream, single data stream (SISD)
2.Single instruction stream, multiple data stream (SIMD)
3.Multiple instruction stream, single data stream (MISD)
4.Multiple instruction stream, multiple data stream (MIMD)
There are two types of Array Processors
1. Attached Array Processor
2. SIMD Array Processor
Attached Array Processors
It is designed as a peripheral for a conventional host computer .
It is purpose is to enhance the performance of the computer by providing vector
processing .
Is achieves high performance by means of parallel processing with multiple functional
units .
An attached array processor is a processor which is attached to a general purpose computer
and its purpose is to enhance and improve the performance of that computer in numerical
computational tasks. It achieves high performance by means of parallel processing with multiple
functional units.
Attached array processor has two interfaces:
1. Input output interface to a common processor.
2. Interface with a local memory.
SIMD Array processor
It is processor which consists of multiple processing unit operating in parallel.
The processing units are synchronized to perform the same task under control of
common control unit .
Each processor elements(PE)includes an ALU , a floating point arithmetic unit and
working register.
Why use the Array Processor
Array processors increases the overall instruction processing speed.
As most of the Array processors operates asynchronously from the host CPU, hence it improves
the overall capacity of the system.
Array Processors has its own local memory, hence providing extra memory for systems with low
memory.
How array processor can help?
CPUs are able to manipulate one or two pieces of data at a time ,for instance , most
CPUs have an instruction that