Data-Level Parallelism
in Computer
Architecture
A journey into the realm of parallel processing, exploring how data-
level parallelism accelerates computation.
SIMD: The Parallel Advantage
Simultaneous processing Scientific computing
Handles multiple data elements at once, boosting Accelerates linear algebra, large datasets, memory efficiency.
performance.
Media Applications
Real-time processing Streaming data
Enables smooth image and sound processing for multimedia.Manages vast amounts of data efficiently for smooth
playback.
Two Flavors of SIMD
Feature Vector Architecture SIMD Extensions
Registers Long vector registers Short SIMD registers
Instruction Set Specialized for Extensions to
vector operations existing scalar
instruction set
Data Handling Directly on vectors Loads data into
in memory registers before
processing
Flexibility Less flexible, More flexible,
focused on vectors supports both
scalar and SIMD
operations
GPU: Beyond Pixels
1 Parallel 2 Specialized
processing hardware
GPUs excel at handling Dedicated units
millions of calculations accelerate vertex
simultaneously for processing, texture
graphics rendering. mapping, and pixel
shading.
3 Programmable shaders
Allow developers to customize effects and lighting for
immersive experiences.
GPGPU: Beyond
Graphics
Expanding the role Parallel power
of GPUs
Ideal for tasks broken down
into smaller, independent
GPUs are now used for operations.
scientific simulations,
machine learning, and data
analysis.
High throughput
Enables faster execution of complex computations.