Massively parallel SIMD processor which selectively transfers individual contiguously disposed serial memory elements

摘要

A parallel processor adapted to be used as a vector co- processor to a host computer, comprising a plurality of 1-bit processing elements (PEs) and an associated rapidly accessed memory and lateral data path switch providing rapid computational processing of data contained within contiguous bit locations of each 1-bit, and rapid lateral transfer between 1-bit PEs. The PEs implement the data logical and computational processing with a reduced instruction set. Rapid data transfer between the PE and the associated memory is provided by implementing such elements on a common semi-conductor substrate having shared data address and control signals, thus reducing the complexity of circuitry external to the chip. Flexible and rapid data transfer between and among PEs is provided with a switch element comprising a cross-bar which allows the parallel processor to provide rapid processing of video and other data. A preferred embodiment discussed herein implements the parallel processor using multi-port video DRAM devices as column-aligned parallel processors.