Title :
Computer technology and architecture: an evolving interaction
Author :
Hennessy, John L. ; Jouppi, Norman P.
Author_Institution :
Dept. of Electr. Eng., Stanford Univ., CA, USA
Abstract :
The interaction between computer architecture and IC technology is examined. To evaluate the attractiveness of particular technologies, computer designs are assessed primarily on the basis of performance and cost. The focus is mainly on CPU performance, both because it is easier to measure and because the impact of technology is most easily seen in the CPU. The technology trends discussed concern memory size, design complexity and time, and design scaling. Architectural trends in the areas of pipelining, memory systems, and multiprocessing are considered. Opportunities and problems to be solved in the years ahead are identified.<>
Keywords :
computer architecture; performance evaluation; CPU performance; IC technology; computer architecture; computer designs; cost; design complexity; design scaling; memory size; memory systems; multiprocessing; performance; pipelining; technology trends; Central Processing Unit; Clocks; Computer aided instruction; Computer architecture; Cooling; Costs; Environmental factors; Fault tolerance; Integrated circuit technology; Working environment noise;