The Fast Amsterdam Multiprocessor (FAMP) System Hardware

The architecture of a multiprocessor system is described that will be used for on-line filter and second stage trigger applications. The system is based on the MC68000 microprocessor from Motorola. As for the hardware, emphasis is put on the modularity, processor communication and interfacing. In the discussion of the software special attention is given to the operating system software, in particular the communication between the supervisor and slave processing cells. Also the interaction between time critical user programs and operating system is discussed.