Reference: Byrd, G. T.; Nakano, R.; & Delagi, B. A. A Point-to-Point Multicast Communications Protocol. January, 1987.
Abstract: Many network topologies have been proposed for connecting a large number of processor-memory pairs in a high-performance multiprocessor system. In terms of performance, however, the communications protocol decisions may be as crucial as topology. This paper describes a protocol to support point-to- point interprocessor communications with multicast. Dynamic, cut-through routing with local flow control is used to provide a high-throughput, low- latency communications path between processors. In addition, multicast transmissions are available, in which copies of a packet are sent to multiple destinations using common resources as much as possible. Special packet terminators and selective buffering are introduced to avoid deadlock during multicasts. A simulated implementation of the protocol is also described.
Notes: STAN-CS-87-1146 30 pages.