Dr. Scott M. Baker, an enthusiast of parallel computing projects, has recently constructed a small multiprocessor computer using eight Intel 8008 processors. Despite its low performance by modern standards, the design showcases a blend of classic parallel processing and vintage Intel technology.
Originally released in 1972, the Intel 8008 is an eight-bit CPU capable of operating between 500kHz and 800kHz, with a mere 16kB memory capacity. Although it consists of only 3,500 transistors, the Intel 8008 holds significance in the development of Intel’s x86 architecture.
Baker’s design, dubbed “MasterBlaster,” features eight Intel 8008 CPUs, divided into seven “brawn” devices, known as Blasters, and one “brain” device called Master. The nomenclature is inspired by the characters from the movie “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.” While Master contains a 16kB ROM and RAM, the seven Blasters are equipped with only RAM.
To maintain simplicity, Baker implemented a synchronously shared memory approach in the design. This means that either Blaster or Master has access to the memory, but not both simultaneously. Baker explains that during operation, Blaster uses the memory, while Master can access it when Blaster is halted.
During initial testing of the MasterBlaster system, Baker encountered a problem while running Conway’s Game of Life. The device would crash after a few hundred cycles due to a conflict between an interrupt signal sent to a halted Blaster and the O1 clock being dropped. Baker resolved this issue by using a flipflop to ensure that interrupts only occurred during the low-to-high transition of O1.
Dr. Scott M. Baker has shared the schematics and source code for the MasterBlaster project, with plans to release the Gerber files for PCB production in the near future. Those interested in exploring the full project write-up can visit Baker’s website or access the schematics and source code on GitHub.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the MasterBlaster computer?
A: The MasterBlaster computer is a small multiprocessor computer designed by Dr. Scott M. Baker using eight Intel 8008 processors.
Q: When was the Intel 8008 released and what are its specifications?
A: The Intel 8008 was originally released in 1972. It is an eight-bit CPU with a clock speed between 500kHz and 800kHz. It has a memory capacity of 16kB and consists of 3,500 transistors.
Q: How is the MasterBlaster computer structured?
A: The MasterBlaster computer consists of seven “brawn” devices called Blasters and one “brain” device called Master. The Blasters only have RAM, while Master contains a 16kB ROM and RAM.
Q: How does the memory access work in the MasterBlaster computer?
A: The MasterBlaster computer uses a synchronously shared memory approach, which means that either the Blaster or the Master can access the memory, but not both simultaneously. The Blaster uses the memory during operation, while the Master can access it when the Blaster is halted.
Q: What problem did Dr. Scott M. Baker encounter during testing?
A: During testing, Dr. Scott M. Baker encountered a problem while running Conway’s Game of Life. The device would crash after a few hundred cycles due to a conflict between an interrupt signal sent to a halted Blaster and the O1 clock being dropped.
Q: How did Dr. Scott M. Baker resolve the problem encountered during testing?
A: To resolve the problem, Dr. Scott M. Baker used a flipflop to ensure that interrupts only occurred during the low-to-high transition of O1.
Q: Where can I find more information about the MasterBlaster project?
A: You can find the schematics and source code for the MasterBlaster project on Dr. Scott M. Baker’s website or on GitHub. The Gerber files for PCB production will also be released in the near future.
Definitions
Multiprocessor: A computer system that has multiple processors working together to perform tasks.
CPU: Central Processing Unit, the primary component of a computer that performs instructions and calculations.
Clock speed: The rate at which a CPU can process instructions, usually measured in hertz.
ROM: Read-Only Memory, a type of memory that stores data that cannot be modified or erased.
RAM: Random Access Memory, a type of memory that can be read from and written to by a computer.
Interrupt: A signal that temporarily stops the execution of a program to perform a specific task or handle an event.
Flipflop: A digital circuit element that can store a single bit of information.
PCB: Printed Circuit Board, a board that holds and connects electronic components in a computer or other devices.
Gerber files: Files used for PCB production that contain the necessary information for manufacturing the circuit board.
Related links
– Dr. Scott M. Baker’s website
– MasterBlaster project on GitHub
The source of the article is from the blog elblog.pl