[mod.computers.workstations] SUN-3/ZIP 3232

benw@tekgvs.tek.com (Benjamin Ward) (12/12/86)

I am interested in knowing how quickly the Sun-3 to Mercury ZIP 3232+
(or similar array processor) interface runs.  For example, suppose
you want to multiply two 32 bit real numbers A and B using the ZIP.
Assume that the multiply routine is already resident in the ZIP.  The
overall multiply will require two DMA calls and a routine (multiply)
call to the ZIP.  How long does this take?  (what I am asking is what
is the "real" overhead in using this array processor over the VME
bus?)  If anyone has run some benchmarks I whould love to converse
with them by phone/mail.  I am Benjamin Ward, Tektronix Inc.  50-370,
Beaverton, OR 97077, (503)627-6024, with a net address of
tektronix!tekgvs!benw.  Please respond directly and thank you to
anyone who does respond.