Abstract

This thesis describes the design of a low-cost and high-bandwidth interconnection network for the EARTH multithreaded multiprocessor system. The interconnection network consists of a hierarchy of 4 x 4 crossbar switches, and a network interface on each EARTH processor node. The interconnection network is capable of transferring multiple messages simultaneously between nodes. The interconnection network also supports random routing that allows the data connection to be routed automatically around the busy ports. In addition, the interconnection network provides broadcast facility which allows one node to send a message to all destination nodes. The logical design of the 4 x 4 crossbar switch and the network interface has been translated to a physical implementation based on LSI Logic's LCA300K compacted array technology. Although the 4 x 4 crossbar switch is designed for the needs of the EARTH system, it can be used in a wide variety of data communication networks.