Computing and signal processing: an experimental multidisciplinary course

Abstract

In the Fall of 1993 at Berkeley we offered an experimental graduate course that focused on languages for modeling and design of signal processing systems. A major motivation for the course is our Ptolemy project, in which we are experimenting with models of computation and design methodology for signal processing systems. The applicable theory of computation primarily concerns stream datatypes and their implementation in dataflow, functional, and concurrent imperative languages. The issues addressed in the course include determinacy, concurrency, strictness, parallel scheduling, polymorphism, recursion, higher-order functions, and visual syntax. The emphasis is on studying strengths and weaknesses of existing and proposed design environments for signal processing.<>