Abstract: A system and method for estimating data conflicts in a multi-node system is disclosed. According to an embodiment of the invention, tracing the execution of a workload on a single node and analyzing the trace records makes it possible to predict how many data conflicts would occur if the workload were executed across multiple nodes. Also disclosed is a method and mechanism for generating a load distribution plan for a multi-node system.

Abstract: In a parallel processor, a plurality of data processing nodes are intercoupled through an array of message routing circuits. Each message routing circuit has multiple input channels on which messages are received and multiple output channels on which messages are sent. A message on an input channel of any one particular message routing circuit contains a header followed by data with the header consisting of a sequence of control characters which route the data. Depending on the control character sequence that is received on an input channel, the data is sent to one, two, or three output channels and each such data transmission is preceded by a respective modified header which is generated from the header on the input channel. By sequentially performing this message processing in a series of message routing circuits, the data is delivered to multiple nodes along a tree-shaped path.

Abstract: Messages are routed through an array of data processing nodes which are intercoupled with channels in rows and columns. Under certain conditions, a message can exit a node in either one of two directions; and this enables the message to reach its destination by multiple routes. Under other conditions, the message must exit the node in only predetermined direction, and that direction is selected to avoid message routing deadlocks.