Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2024 - CMPT 479 E100

Special Topics in Computing Systems (3)

Compilers for SIMD

Class Number: 4858

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 6 – Aug 2, 2024: Wed, 4:30–7:20 p.m.
    Surrey

  • Prerequisites:

    CMPT 300 with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Current topics in computing systems depending on faculty and student interest.

COURSE DETAILS:

CMPT 479/980 Compiler Technology - SIMD Parallel Processing

The most significant changes to modern instruction set architecture are the deployment of additional single-instruction, multiple-data (SIMD) parallel programming capabilities. For example, recent Intel chips incorporate AVX512 technology for simultaneously processing 512 bits of data at a time, arranged as 8 64-bit doubles or long long integers, 16 32-bit floats or integers, 32 16-bit integers, 64 bytes or 512 bits. General purpose programming on GPUs can similarly exploit the SIMT (single-instruction, multiple thread) model. Parallel programming using such capabilities can dramatically increase software performance, but at a significant cost in programmer productivity. In order to increase both performance and productivity, new SIMD and SIMT programming facilities are needed to automate the generation of high-quality software. In this course, students will study the development of new parallel programming facilities implemented using the LLVM compiler infrastructure as well as the Parabix parallel bit stream technology developed at Simon Fraser University. Students will implement at least one significant compiler component using the LLVM and/or Parabix framework.


Grading

  • Quizzes 20%
  • Participation/Presentations 30%
  • Course Project 50%

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html