A Prototype Framework for Modelling Communication Hardware in Multicomputers

This paper presents a new approach to modelling and performance analysis of communication hardware in parallel computers. That is to move away from the single problem, single solution concept to a more general problem but not necessarily general solution. A feature not generally taken into account in performance analysis of communication hardware is the cost of the network routers. That is, what effect do performance improvements have on their complexity and thus cost. The prototype presented provides a common platform for the design and evaluation, in terms of both performance and cost, of current, proposed and future design ideas and technologies within communication hardware.