Logic simulation on vector processors

The performance of three commercial vector computers, the Cray X-MP/48, IBM 3090/400, and Alliant FX/8, for simulating logic circuits at gate level is compared. Experiments that assume zero- and unit-delay models demonstrate that certain key architectural features, especially, the presence of a scalar cache, have an adverse impact on the potential speedup. Consequently, the achievable speedup due to vectorization of simulation code, while still substantial, is less than expected. The results indicate that concurrent operation of multiple CPUs in vector mode in machines such as the Alliant FX/8 might be the most cost-effective speedup technique for logic simulation on current vector processors.<>