This unique text/reference provides an overview of crossbar-based interconnection networks, offering novel perspectives on these important components of high-performance, parallel-processor systems. A particular focus is placed on solutions to the blocking and scalability problems. Topics and features: introduces the fundamental concepts in interconnection networks in multi-processor systems, including issues of blocking, scalability, and crossbar networks; presents a classification of interconnection networks, and provides information on recognizing each of the networks; examines the challenges of blocking and scalability, and analyzes the different solutions that have been proposed; reviews a variety of different approaches to improve fault tolerance in multistage interconnection networks; discusses the scalable crossbar network, which is a non-blocking interconnection network that uses small-sized crossbar switches as switching elements. This invaluable work will be of great benefit to students, researchers and practitioners interested in computer networks, parallel processing and reliability engineering. The text is also essential reading for course modules on interconnection network design and reliability.

A key component in a new high-speed prototype network, called the Multiple Crossbar Network (MCN) being developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory, is a crossbar switching core and its controller. This switching core allows for up to 32 (800 Mbit/second) connections to pass through it simultaneously. The motivation for this network is to allow visualization data to be sent at movie rate speeds to a users workstation from a supercomputer. This paper reviews the key concepts and components of the MCN, and then focuses on the behavioral level design of a distributed asynchronous VLSI controller chip set for the switching core. A unique design methodology is presented and then applied to the controller which uses an externally distributed chip set, and distributed asynchronous finite state machines internally.

This book contains recent developments in switching networks and applications, including classic topics, such as nonblocking and Benes conjecture, and new directions, such as optical switching networks and applications in VLSI designs. It provides the state of the art for researchers in computer networks and applied mathematics. Audience: Researchers in computer networks and applied mathematics. The book is appropriate for use in graduate courses.