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PRAM (Parallel Random Access Machines)

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Definition

The Parallel Random Access Machine (PRAM) is an abstract model for parallel computation which assumes that all the processors operate synchronously under a single clock and are able to randomly access a large shared memory. In particular, a processor can execute an arithmetic, logic, or memory access operation within a single clock cycle.

Discussion

Introduction

Parallel Random Access Machines (PRAMs) were introduced in the late 1970s as a natural generalization to parallel computation of the Random Access Machine(RAM) model. The RAM model is widely used as the basis for designing and analyzing sequential algorithms. The PRAM model assumes the presence of a number of processors, each identified by a unique id, which have access to a single unbounded shared memory. The processors operate synchronously under a single clock such that each processor can execute an arithmetic or logic operation or a memory access operation within a single clock cycle. In general, each processor...

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JaJa, J.F. (2011). PRAM (Parallel Random Access Machines). In: Padua, D. (eds) Encyclopedia of Parallel Computing. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-09766-4_23

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