Future parallel computers

Abstract

There is currently a veritable explosion of research into novel computer architectures, especially parallel computers. In addition, an increasing number of interesting parallel computer products are appearing. The design motivations cover a broad spectrum: (i) parallel UNIX systems (e.g. SEQUENT Balance), (ii) Artificial Intelligence applications (e.g. Connection Machine), (iii) high performance numerical Supercomputers (e.g. Cosmic Cube), (iv) exploitation of Very Large Scale Integration (e.g. INMOS Transputer), and (v) new technologies (e.g. Optical computers). This short paper gives an overview of these novel parallel computers and discusses their likely commercial impact.