Parallel processing computer containing a multiple instruction stream processing architecture

摘要

An apparatus and a method for combining the characteristics of both single instruction, multiple data stream (SIMD) and multiple instruction, multiple data stream (MIMD) computer architectures into a single parallel processing computer for performing multiple instruction stream processing. Such a parallel processing computer simultaneously performs both MIMD and SIMD operations on various processors within the computer. Additionally, at specified points during program execution, certain processors, i.e., a subset of all the processors, are synchronized. Once synchronized, the processors can exchange data. Moreover, the processors that do not take part in the synchronization continue executing instructions without interruption. The apparatus and method disclosed find applicability in video servers, medical imaging, special effects and animation and location based entertainment systems among other applications.