DMAP-a COBOL extension for associative array processors

Abstract

This paper defines a high-level programming language for a generalized associative array processor (AP). In particular, a data management language for APs, known as DMAP, is developed for use with a representative AP model. This development model, containing both an associative processing section and a sequential processing section, which may operate concurrently, follows current AP design technology[1]. DMAP fully exploits the capabilities available in current AP technology by extending ANSI COBOL [2,3] to support data management functions in an AP environment.There exists general agreement that the use of a high-level language can significantly facilitate the AP programming process in many applications [4,5]. However, a search of the literature suggests that few attempts at high-level language implementation, or even definition, have been made to date [6,7]. The several additional and unique difficulties associated with application-oriented programming of parallel processors in general, and APs in particular, mandates a high-level language capability to produce cost-effective utilization of their processing resources. This paper considers one approach, a first step, toward this development of a high-level language capability to provide some alleviation of immediate programming difficulties as well as provide a tool for further exploration of AP technology.