Publication Data
The Future of Computing Performance: Game Over or Next Level?
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.
