PROPHID: a data-driven multi-processor architecture for high-performance DSP

PROPHID is a design method for high-performance systems with a focus on high-throughput signal processing applications. It makes use of a novel stream-based multi-processor architecture, consisting of data-driven autonomous processors interconnected by a programmable connection network. The key element is the communication arbiter which controls the flow of data between processors. Variable rates and data-dependent processing times are handled efficiently by performing scheduling at run time. We give an overview of the characteristics and advantages of the architecture as well as some implementation results.