Simulative performance analysis of distributed switching fabrics for SCI-based systems

This paper presents the results of a simulative performance study on 1D and 2D k-ary n-cube topologies as distributed switching fabrics for the Scalab le Coherent Interface (SCI). Case studies are conducted on multiprocessor S CI networks composed of simple rings, counterrotating rings, unidirectional and bidirectional tori, and tori with rings of uniform size. Based on a no vel set of verified high-fidelity models, the results identify fundamental performance characteristics associated with each of these SCI fabrics, and tradeoffs between them, in terms of throughput and latency. Limits on scala ble performance from SCI with increase in complexity and dimensionality are clarified, supporting decisions for advanced multiprocessor design. (C) 20 00 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.