Shared Virtual Memory Accomodating Heterogeneity

Report ID: TR-210-89
Author: Li, Kai / Stumm, Michael / Wortman, David / Zhou, Songnian
Date: 1989-02-00
Pages: 23
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Abstract:

Heterogeneity exists in almost every research computing environment. Most operating systems accommodate heterogeneity by using a coherent file system that allows clients to access source files in a transparent way. In order to allow heterogeneous computer systems to cooperate, we have applied the framework of shared virtual memory to a heterogeneous computing environment and explore in detail how to accommodate heterogeneity. We have also designed a shared virtual memory system kernel, Mermaid, upon which one can build system components, programming languages, and application software using heterogeneous computers. We are currently implementing Mermaid on a network of SUN workstations and DEC Firefly multiprocessors.