A memory participative architecture for high performancecommunication systems

摘要

The authors define memory participative architecture as one inwhich the memory is not just a passive repository of data, but activelyparticipates in completing a computation along with the CPU. Theydescribe such a system based on an intelligent memory called SWIM,designed for efficient storage and manipulation of data structures. Thekey architectural idea in SWIM is to put some processing logic insideeach memory chip that allows it to perform data manipulation operationslocally and to communicate directly with a disk or communication line. Acomplex communication task can be distributed between a large number ofsmall memory processors each doing a sub-task, while still retaining acommon locus of control for operation, administration and maintenancefunctions. This enables more powerful, scalable and robust designs forcommunications subsystems that can support emerging network services,multimedia workstations and wireless PCS systems