Multiprocessor Systems-on-Chips

15.3. Models of Computation and Computer Models

Here, we take a step toward a broader definition of what it means to model a computer system than the conventional views of MoCs. For this, we introduce the broader class of computer modeling, which we propose can be roughly separated into three areas: formal MoCs, computer artifacts, and computer design tools. All can be thought of as computer modeling, even though the formal models are traditionally the only ones considered to fall into the category of MoC.

A formal MoC is generally considered to be one with a mathematical basis. Simulations of formal models may be more efficient for large systems; however, the properties of formal models permit the representation of the system to be manipulated ...