Delay analysis in synchronous circuit-switched delta networks

Abstract

Multistage interconnection networks (MINs) provide a cost-effective alternative to a full crossbar connection for processor-processor or processor-memory communication in a tightly coupled multiprocessor system. Delta networks, a class of blocking type MIN with unique path property, have been studied extensively for their self-routing capability. A probabilistic analysis of the blocking and its effect on the delay is presented here, for such a network operated in a synchronous circuit-switched mode. Under the assumption of uniformly distributed access requests independently generated at each unblocked source, an upper bound on the expected latency has been established. The bound has been compared with simulation results.<>