Parallel Processing: What is it, How Does it Work, What are its Types

Parallel processing is an important approach to reducing the time for computation when a process is monotonous. For this, the technique utilizes different processors. It is useful even for the division of workload. For this approach to function, the availability of microprocessors is important. It helps segment one major task into smaller ones. Thus, the technique makes it simpler to execute and completely manage the task, irrespective of how complex it is. Note that the functioning of parallel processing may undergo variation. This is due to its types, such as SIMD and MIMD, that involve 2 or several processors.

Table of Contents

• What is Parallel Processing?
• How Does Parallel Processing Work?
• What are the Types of Parallel Processing?

What is Parallel Processing?

Briefly put, parallel processing is a method for computing. It involves several data processing operations and calculation streams to occur simultaneously via CPUs or central processing units that work at the same time. 

• Note that this technique utilizes at least or more than 2 CPUs or processors. 
• Through these, it handles different parts of the complete tasks.

How Does Parallel Processing Work?

Techniques like parallel processing work through the division of a task between 2 or multiple microprocessors. In other words, a complex or challenging task is segmented into various parts. For this, a specific software-like tool is used. It assigns every part of the task to a specific processor. This is ensured as per the components of that task.

• Thus, a large task is divided into several small ones.
• The smaller tasks are apt for the type of processing units available as well as their size and number.
• Every part is completed by the respective processor.
• Afterward, the entire data is reassembled as this software tool continues to function for the execution of the assigned task.

An Overview of Processors’ Functioning

In the context of parallel processing, a processor normally functions to carry out operations. They are executed in parallel while the processor pulls data from the system’s memory. Take into account that processors depend on Embedded Software for communication. This helps in syncing them for data value-related changes. Ultimately, the software combines all the pieces of data.

What are the Types of Parallel Processing?

There are several types of parallel processing, such as SIMD, SISD, MIMD, and SPMD. Usually, they work through information sets and two or more processors. Depending on the type, the requirement for both differs. 

SIMD or Single Instruction, Multiple Data

Single instruction multiple data is a type of parallel processing that is typically put into use for the analysis of huge data sets, on the basis of specific benchmarks. It is to note that a computer includes a minimum of 2 processors. They are provided with the same set of instructions, though the data they handle is different.

Multiple Instruction, Multiple Data or MIMD

MIMD is a kind of parallel processing in which every computer has 2 or more processors of its own. It receives data through separate streams of data. Thus, the availability of several processors makes it distinct from others. Also, each of these is capable of solely accepting the stream of instructions. 

Single Instruction, Single Data (SISD)

One of the types of parallel processing is Single Instruction, Single Data. It comprises a single processor. It simultaneously manages an algorithm as one source of data. SISD usually represents a single system or computer organization with one unit of processing, a single memory unit, and a control unit.

MISD or Multiple Instruction, Single Data 

An important type of parallel processing is MISD, which makes use of multiple processors. When different algorithms are in use, the input data shared by every processor is the same. Such computers can perform several operations altogether on the same data batch. Thus, the number of such operations had an impact as per the available processors.

Single Program, Multiple Data/SPMD

SPMD is a parallel processing type that is a subset of Multiple Instruction, Multiple Data, also known as MIMD. Its processors undertake the task of executing the same set of instructions. Single Program, Multiple Data is a programming technique used for the distribution of computer memory systems. These systems are formed of separate computers combined in a group, additionally called nodes. 

MPP or Massively Parallel Processing

Among the various kinds of the parallel processing technique, MPP is included. Via Massively Parallel Processing, the coordinated management of program operations through different processors is ensured. Considering every CPU that makes use of its memory as well as its operating system, this kind of processing is applicable to various sections of the program.

Considering all of the Above,

It is concluded that parallel processing is an important approach for the purpose of computation. It works by segmenting a task to make it simpler and easier to complete. Only the functioning varies when the type of this approach differs and incorporates multiple or only two processors for computation.