array processor

array processor

A computer, or extension to its arithmetic unit, that is capable of performing simultaneous computations on elements of an array of data in some number of dimensions. Common uses include analysis of fluid dynamics and rotation of 3D objects as well as data retrieval, in which elements in a database are scanned simultaneously. See vector processor and math coprocessor.

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array processor [ə′rā ′präs‚es·ər]

(computer science)

A multiprocessor composed of a set of identical central processing units acting synchronously under the control of a common unit.

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(processor)

array processor - (Or "vector processor") A computer, or extension to its arithmetic unit, that is capable of performing simultaneous computations on elements of an array or table of data in some number of dimensions. The IBM AltiVec (the "Velocity Engine" used in the Apple G4 computers) is a vector processor. Common uses for array processors include analysis of fluid dynamics and rotation of 3d objects, as well as data retrieval, in which elements of a database are scanned simultaneously. Array processors are very rare now (1998). Array presentation.