An Approach for Quantitative Analysis of Application-Specific Dataflow Architectures

In this paper we present an approach for quantitative analysis of application-specific dataflow architectures. The approach allows the designer to rate design alternatives in a quantitative way and therefore supports him in the design process to find better performing architectures. The context of our work is Video Signal Processing algorithms which are mapped onto weakly-programmable, coarse-grain dataflow architectures. The algorithms are represented as Kahn graphs with the functionality of the nodes being coarse-grain functions. We have implemented an architecture simulation environment that permits the definition of dataflow architectures as a composition of architecture elements, such as functional units, buffer elements and communicationstructures. The abstract, clockcycle accurate simulator has been built using a multi-threading package and employs object oriented principles. This results in a configurable and efficient simulator. Algorithms can subsequently be executed on the ...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 1997
• Where: ASAP
• Authors: Bart Kienhuis, Ed F. Deprettere, Kees A. Vissers, Pieter van der Wolf
• Keywords: Application-specific Dataflow Architectures, ASAP 1997, Coarse-grain Dataflow Architectures, Dataflow Architecture, Hardware