Computer Architecture and Organization for Distributed and Intelligent Systems

The rapid growth of complex computational tasks in such areas as Artificial Intelligence, machine and deep learning, Big Data analytics, Internet of Things, blockchain, and edge/fog computing demands architectural advancements in computing systems. Traditional single-core, low-power architectures are insufficient to meet modern requirements for scalability, compatibility, performance, efficiency, and security. Multi-core processors, such specialized architecture as GPUs, and emerging designs like RISC-V and ARM have become essential for handling heavy workloads while maintaining energy efficiency.

Computer Architecture and Organization for Distributed and Intelligent Systems covers this new generation of computer architecture. The book provides a broad contextual overview of how modern computing paradigms are evolving to handle increasing complexity, data volumes, and connectivity demands, setting the stage for detailed discussions on CPU architectures, memory systems, distributed computing, cloud and data-driven processing, Internet of Everything (IoE), blockchain, bio-inspired intelligence, and quantum computing. It also addresses increasing concerns about data security and providing timely firmware and software updates, enabling CPUs to adapt, safeguard information, and enhance performance.

Another challenge the book addresses is low-powered architecture with a limited core, which is inadequate for the heavy workloads these fields demand. To overcome this limitation, the text covers such modern solutions as GPUs for deep learning, RISC-V for open and customizable designs, and ARM architectures for energy-efficient performance. The book also looks at the critical function of memory in advanced computer architecture.

It discusses how internal memory (e.g., cache and registers), external memory (e.g., hard disks and SSDs), and virtual memory each support the system differently. Delving into distributed memory systems, the book explains why message passing becomes key for data sharing and why ensuring data consistency, reducing latency, and optimizing data locality for performance are such challenges. To conclude its examination of the evolution and transformation of computer organization and architecture, the book peeks into the next generation architecture.