Data parallel computers and the FORALL statement

Abstract

The array constructs of Fortran 90 (formerly called Fortran 8*) map naturally onto SIMD (single-instruction-stream, multiple-data-stream) architectures that support a data parallel programming style, such as that of the Connection Machine computer system. The FORALL statement, an extension to Fortran 90 allowing for the expression of simultaneous execution of certain DO loop bodies, enhances this natural fit. A Fortran 90 compiler for data parallel machines is extended naturally to handle the FORALL statement. The data structures and algorithms used to effect this extension are described, and some examples of source code fragments and the target operations generated for them are presented.<>