CONTROLLER FOR A SIMD/MIMD PROCESSOR ARRAY

A controller for a SIMD processor array that can execute instructions within each processing element is described. This three stage hierarchical controller executes instructions at the function, routine, and micro-level, to maximize the effectiveness of processing within the array elements themselves. The routine sequencer is hardwired to perform looping and flow control operations using DO/WHILE, IF/THEN/ELSE, and GO-SUB constructs. A pipeline is provided to maintain a steady flow of commands to the array, and means is provided to monitor command execution progress and to provide feedback of progress to the stages of the controller. A SIMD processor can be efficiently used by (a) keeping maximun number of elements working on the problem, (b) feeding the array a continuous stream of commands with pipeline construction and looping control ahead of time outside the array, and (c) efficient problem implementation by hierarchical breakdown of the problem.