To performance evaluation of distributed parallel algorithms

Purpose - To address the problems of high performance computing by using the networks of workstations (NOW) and to discuss the complex performance evaluation of centralised and distributed parallel algorithms. Design/methodology/approach - Defines the role of performance and performance evaluation methods using a theoretical approach. Presents concrete parallel algorithms and tabulates the results of their performance. Findings - Sees that a network of workstations based on powerful personal computers belongs in the future and as very cheap, flexible and perspective asynchronous parallel systems. Argues that this trend will produce dynamic growth in the parallel architectures based on the networks of workstations. Research limitations/implication - We would like to continue these experiments in order to derive more precise and general formulae for typical used parallel algorithms from linear algebra and other application oriented parallel algorithms. Practical implications - Describes how the use of NOW can provide a cheaper alternative to traditionally used massively parallel multiprocessors or supercomputers and shows the advantages of unifying the two disciplines that are involved. Originality/value - Produces a new approach and exploits the parallel processing capability of NOW. Gives the concrete practical examples of the method that has been developed using experimental measuring.