A heterogeneous multiprocessor architecture for workstations

A heterogeneous multiprocessor architecture is presented which combines loosely and tightly coupled configurations (multicomputer and multiprocessor). This architecture provides for incremental growth of the system by static or by dynamic reconfiguration. An object-oriented approach allows encapsulation and information hiding to assist in managing the diverse processor architectures. In the model adopted, the process is the basic unit of executable work and concurrency, and is thought to be encapsulated by an object. Cooperating concurrent processors are supported. A set of system primitives supports the requirements of a heterogeneous multiprocessing environment. The system requirements for a secure and reliable operating environment are incorporated into the design. Hardware porting provides a means to overcome the lag of software support for hardware advances