A vector processing module for PC-based instrumentation

The IMS B420 (Vectram) has been developed to offer both scalar and vector processing in a single `TRAM´ module. This module combines the scalar floating/integer and the general purpose capabilities of the transputer with a high performance vector/signal processing co-processor. A set of software libraries are available which allow programs, written in high level languages, running on the transputer to call vector routines executed on the coprocessor. The author summarises the Vectram architecture and its principle of operation. The nature of the support software and some application areas are also discussed