Introduction to Dataflow Computing

Abstract

This chapter presents the possibilities for obtaining significant performance gains based on advanced implementations of algorithms using the dataflow hardware. A framework built on top of the dataflow architecture that provides tools for advanced implementations is also described. In particular, the authors point out to the following issues of interest for accelerating algorithms: (1) the dataflow paradigm appears as suitable for executing certain set of algorithms for high performance computing, namely algorithms that work with big data, as well as algorithms that include a lot of repetitions of the same set of instructions; (2) dataflow architecture could be configured using appropriate programming tools that can define hardware by generating VHDL files; (3) besides accelerating algorithms, dataflow architecture also reduces power consumption, which is an important security factor with edge computing.