BCSE412L- Parallel Computing

Faculty Name: Dr. A. ILAVENDHAN

School of Computer Science and Engineering (SCOPE)
 Vector processing
• Vector processing is a type of parallel processing that involves the
simultaneous execution of operations on multiple data elements.

• In vector processing, a single instruction is applied to multiple data

elements, typically arranged in vectors or arrays, allowing for high
throughput and efficient processing of large amounts of data.
Important points about vector processing:

Vector Processors:
Vector processors are specialized processors designed to perform vector
operations. They excel at handling tasks where the same operation needs to be
performed on a large set of data simultaneously.

Vector Instructions:
Vector processors use vector instructions, which are instructions that
operate on entire vectors of data in a single instruction.
These instructions are designed to exploit data-level parallelism, reducing
the need for explicit looping constructs in the code.
Important points about vector processing:
Data Parallelism:
Vector processing is based on the concept of data parallelism, where the same
operation is performed on multiple pieces of data in parallel.
This is in contrast to scalar processing, where a single operation is performed
on a single piece of data at a time.

Applications:
Vector processing is particularly well-suited for scientific and engineering
applications that involve complex mathematical calculations, simulations, and
numerical computations.

It is also used in graphics processing units (GPUs) for handling parallel

processing tasks in graphics rendering.
Important points about vector processing:
Advantages:
•High Throughput:
• Vector processors can achieve high throughput by processing multiple data
elements simultaneously.
•Reduced Instruction Overhead:
• Vector instructions can operate on a large set of data with a single instruction,
reducing the need for repetitive instructions and loop control.
Challenges:
•Programming Complexity:
• Efficiently programming for vector processors may require specialized
knowledge and expertise.

•Data Dependency:
• Dependencies among data elements can limit the effectiveness of vector
processing.