Development of computer technology for Simulation

The five rapers in this issue of Simulation des cribe a multiple-computer system resulting from a relatively new trend at the Applied Physics Laboratory of The John Hopkins University. This trend is away from individual, stand-alone computers and toward the interconnection of computers. The initial impe tus for this trend was to gain economy of,scale in terms of cost per unit of work, and to slow the rapid proliferation of computers dedicated to specific jobs.

The new emphasis has required the development of technology for combining real-time and multiprogram ming modes of operation. This will enable a system of interdependent computers to provide simultaneous hybrid simulation, interactive digital simulation, hardware tie-ins to these simulations, and batch pro cessing. The system software and hardware links nec essary to implement such a multiple computer system are discussed in detail.