
5.6 Interconnection Networks 289
The interconnection network used to connect the processing elements and mem-
ory is a key component of a complex multiprocessor. The bandwidth of the net-
work is a key factor in performance; the network design also plays a critical role
in power consumption.
terms We should establish some terminology for networks. We use the term client
to refer to a sender or receiver connected to a network. A port is a connection to
a network on a client. A link is a connection between two clients. You may see
the terms half-duplex and full-duplex; a full-duplex connection can simulta-
neously transmit data in both directions, while ...