A local area system network RHiNET-1: a network for high performance parallel computing

Abstract

The Real World Computing Partnership (RWCP) has developed a local area system network (LASN) called RHiNET-1 (RWCP High-performance NETwork, version 1) using 1.33-Gbps optical interconnections for high-performance computing using personal computers distributed in an office or laboratory environment. The network interface, RHiNET-1/NI, uses a complex programmable logic device (CPLD) based protocol controller to provide an easy evaluation platform for various protocols. It fits in a 32-bit/33-MHz PCI bus. The switch, RHiNET-1/SW, consists of a single-chip CMOS switch and external SRAM. It provides low-latency, reliable communication with a flexible topology design. We are currently evaluating protocols on RHiNET-1. RHiNET-1 will enable a new form of high-performance computing environment. We are also developing the second implementation, RHiNET-2. RHiNET-2/NI will support a 64-bit/66-MHz PCI bus. RHiNET-2/SW is an 8-Gbps/port 8/spl times/8 single-chip ASIC switch. The aggregate bandwidth of RHiNET-2/SW is 64 Gbps.