Real-time classification of chromosomes in slit scan flow cytometry using NERV-a MIMD supercomputer

Presently, profile evaluation can be done at a rate of 10 chromosomes/s using the reflection algorithm. To measure, for example, radiation-induced aberrations in the low dose range or to sort chromosomes according to their slit scan data, it is desired that the analysis speed increase by a factor of 100. It is shown that the data analysis rate allowed by the on-line computer may be increased by implementing the analysis algorithm on a multiprocessor system consisting of 60 microprocessors. The authors discuss an evaluation done on a parallel processing system that may consist of a high number (⩽320) of 32-b microprocessors (NERV). The NERV system was developed as a prototype with a small number of slave processors. Its hardware has been tested completely