ASP modules: building-blocks for application-specific massively parallel processors

ASP (associative string processor) modules comprise highly-versatile parallel processing building-blocks for the simple construction of application-specific second-generation massively parallel processors (MPPs). The author discusses ASP module philosophy, demonstrates how ASP modules can satisfy the market, algorithmic, architectural, and engineering requirements of application-specific MPPs, and reports on current progress in the development of ASP technology. A case example indicates that 1 TOPS/ft³, 1 GOPS/W, and 1 MOPS/$ can be reasonably forecast figures-of-merit for the cost effectiveness of second-generation MPPs built with WSI ASP modules. Comparison with first-generation MPP implementations reveals a 2-3 orders-of-magnitude advantage in favor of the ASP modules