Title
Models of parallel computation: a survey and synthesis
Abstract
In the realm of sequential computing, the random access machine has successfully provided an underlying model of computation that has promoted consistency and coordination among algorithm developers, computer architects and language experts. In the realm of parallel computing, however, there has been no similar success. The need for such a unifying parallel model or set of models is heightened by the greater demand for performance and the greater diversity among machines. Yet the modeling of parallel computing still seems to be mired in controversy and chaos. This paper presents a broad range of models of parallel computation and the different roles they serve in algorithm, language and machine design. The objective is to better understand which model characteristics are important to each design community, in order to elucidate the requirements of a unifying paradigm. As an impetus for discussion, we conclude by suggesting a model of parallel computation which is consistent with a model design philosophy that balances simplicity and descriptivity with prescriptivity. We present only the survey of abstract computational models. This introduction should provide insights into the rich array of relevant issues in other disciplines.
Year
DOI
Venue
1995
10.1109/HICSS.1995.375476
HICSS
Keywords
Field
DocType
computation theory,parallel processing,reviews,abstract computational models,algorithm design,descriptivity,design community,language design,machine design,machine diversity,model design philosophy,parallel computation models,performance,prescriptivity,simplicity,survey,unifying paradigm,unifying parallel model
Algorithm design,Computer science,Parallel computing,Random-access machine,Theoretical computer science,Computational model,Model of computation,Philosophy of design,Concurrent computing,Prescriptivity,Theory of computation
Conference
Volume
ISBN
Citations 
2
0-8186-6935-7
41
PageRank 
References 
Authors
2.25
22
3
Name
Order
Citations
PageRank
Bruce M. Maggs13592368.31
L. R. Matheson2473.26
Robert Endre Tarjan3251606384.61