The Future of Computing Performance: Game Over or Next Level?
Venue
The National Academies Press (2011), pp. 200
Publication Year
2011
Authors
Samuel H. Fuller, Luiz André Barroso, Robert P. Colwell, William J. Dally, Dan Dobberpuhl, Pradeep Dubey, Mark D. Hill, Mark Horowitz, David Kirk, Monica Lam, Kathryn S. McKinley, Charles Moore, Katherine Yelick
BibTeX
Abstract
The end of dramatic exponential growth in single-processor performance marks the
end of the dominance of the single microprocessor in computing. The era of
sequential computing must give way to a new era in which parallelism is at the
forefront. Although important scientific and engineering challenges lie ahead, this
is an opportune time for innovation in programming systems and computing
architectures. We have already begun to see diversity in computer designs to
optimize for such considerations as power and throughput. The next generation of
discoveries is likely to require advances at both the hardware and software levels
of computing systems. There is no guarantee that we can make parallel computing as
common and easy to use as yesterday's sequential single-processor computer systems,
but unless we aggressively pursue efforts suggested by the recommendations in this
book, it will be "game over" for growth in computing performance. If parallel
programming and related software efforts fail to become widespread, the development
of exciting new applications that drive the computer industry will stall; if such
innovation stalls, many other parts of the economy will follow suit. The Future of
Computing Performance describes the factors that have led to the future limitations
on growth for single processors that are based on complementary metal oxide
semiconductor (CMOS) technology. It explores challenges inherent in parallel
computing and architecture, including ever-increasing power consumption and the
escalated requirements for heat dissipation. The book delineates a research,
practice, and education agenda to help overcome these challenges. The Future of
Computing Performance will guide researchers, manufacturers, and information
technology professionals in the right direction for sustainable growth in computer
performance, so that we may all enjoy the next level of benefits to society.
