|
Parallaxis is a programming language for data parallel (synchronous
parallel) programming. The language is based on sequential Modula-2,
which was extended by machine-independent parallel constructs. As a
result, Parallaxis can be used on different massively parallel SIMD
systems (single instruction, multiple data) - contrary to nearly all
commercial languages for SIMD systems. In Parallaxis this
abstraction is achieved by a functional declaration of processor
arrangements in the network topology. By establishing virtual
processors (similar to the concept of virtual memory) and virtual
connections parallel application programs can be developed that are
independent of the available computer hardware. These application
programs are more readable and easier to understand through the
declaration of the parallel structure. Parallaxis has been in
development at the University of Stuttgart since 1989 and is
available as public domain software. It is used worldwide at a large
number of universities and research institutions.
The User Manual also contains sample applications, usage of
Parallaxis compiler and debugger, as well as an appendix with
standard procedures and language syntax.
|