New processors present problems, payoff · Jul 23, 05:40 PM
BusinessWeek has published an article about the problems that multi-core processors present for software development.
The gap between hardware and software hasn’t become a problem for consumers yet, because operating systems like Windows XP and Vista already work with the multicore chips out now, and basic applications like word processing and e-mail won’t need the extra cores or a software overhaul.
But experts predict dire consequences if the software for more complicated applications isn’t brought up to speed soon.
They warn that programs could suddenly stop getting faster as chips with eight or more cores make their way into PCs. The software as it’s currently designed can’t take advantage of that level of complexity.
“We’d be in uncharted territory,” Patterson said. “We need to get some Manhattan Projects going here — somebody could solve this problem, and whoever solves this problem could have this gigantic advantage on everybody else.”
— Published by Software Pipelines Alliance
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