Article Abstract:
The next-generation supercomputers depart from the traditional vector processors to massively parallel designs that will set the standard for performance through the mid-1990s. Thinking Machines Corp's CM-5 draws its power from about 2,000 high-performance chips based on Sun Microsystems' Scalable Processor Architecture (SPARC) technology that can work on various streams of instructions at the same time. Cray Research, whose single-processor machines were the standard until massive parallelism came along, is expected to introduce the C-90, an eight-processor supercomputer that analysts see as possibly the last of its kind that could be commercially successful. Other companies that will be entering the supercomputer market are Alliant Computer Systems, Intel and Kendall Square Research. The new generation of supercomputers are important scientific tools. Prices would range from several thousand dollars to more than $50 million. The US lead in supercomputer technology is being eroded by competition from Europe and Japan.
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Article Abstract:
Modems, which convert computers' digital signals into audible tones that can be transmitted over the telephone, have fallen behind the computers they connect in terms of technology and speed. Most modems communicate at between 120 and 240 characters per second (cps), with the higher priced new models achieving speeds of between 1,000 and 2,000 cps. Computers can send millions of cps. The difference in capabilities is frustrating to many users. Another obstacle to communication is the clashing industry standards supported by manufacturers, resulting in incompatible modems. Users are anticipating the conversion of US telephone lines to ISDN, which will allow communications of up to 6,400 cps. However, analysts say users will have to wait several years before the conversion takes place.
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Article Abstract:
The Concurrent Supercomputing Consortium is planning the purchase of an Intel Corp custom-designed supercomputer to help solve grand challenges in scientific research. The Consortium, which is being led by the California Institute of Technology and consists of 14 US research institutions, places great emphasis on parallel processing, a style of computing that links many microprocessors together. The supercomputer is expected to help solve several persistent problems in science by providing models for global climate change and complex chemical reactions. The supercomputer will also facilitate the visualization of data from the Magellan and Galileo spacecraft.
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