ClusterNet: An Object-Oriented Cluster Network

Parallel processing is based on utilizing a group of processors to efficiently solve large problems faster than is possible on a single processor. To accomplish this, the processors must communicate and coordinate with each other through some type of network. However, the only function that most networks support is message routing. Consequently, functions that involve data from a group of processors must be implemented on top of message routing. We propose treating the network switch as a function unit that can receive data from a group of processors, execute operations, and return the result(s) to the appropriate processors. This paper describes how each of the architectural resources that are typically found in a network switch can be better utilized as a centralized function unit. A proof-of-concept prototype called ClusterNet4EPP has been implemented to demonstrate feasibility of this concept.