A programmable HIPPI interface for a graphics supercomputer
Raj K. Singh, Stephen G. Tell, Shaun J. Bharrat, D. Becker, V. L. Chi · 1993
As networks approach gigabit performance, supercomputer host interfaces are becoming the communication bottleneck.The Network Interface Unit (NIU) is a highperformance host interface for Pixel Planes 5, a custom graphics supercomputer.The design offers both performance and programmability through a balance of ahtamarshaling hardware and an embedded processor.In this paper, we describe the NW hardware and jirmware architecture.We present some prelitw"nary peq$ormance measurements and assess the applicability of this design for the targeted environment.We also comment on its suitability for other environments and outline plans for the future work.PemnissiOn to copy witkut fee df or pan of Ibis mat.xial is gmntaf, pmvikd that tbe copie6 are not made or diswilmted for direct commercial adva"lage, the ACM copyright nctice and ibe tide of the publication and 124 its date appear, and notice is given that copying is by permission of tbe Assxiation for Commting Machinery.To copy otbenvise, or to repubkb, requires a fee andkr specific permission.