The Impact of VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) on Signal Processing

Abstract

Abstract : Many modern applications, such as signal processing and real-time simulation, require large amounts of computation. This poses a dilemma: General-purpose computers are too costly for real-time applications, and special-purpose hardware is not flexible enough for research and development work. Traditionally, Peripheral Array Processor (PAP) provide a cost-effective compromise that combines the best of both worlds: large amounts of computation performed at a very high rate, at a reasonable cost, and without loss of generality or programmability. Therefore, throughout this note PAPs are used as the baseline for the discussion of signal processing engines. With the rapid advance of VLSI technology new alternatives have emerged, such as the so-called signal processor on a chip and numerous special purpose processing devices. An interesting question is, are the new VLSI devices about to do to the conventional signal processors what microprocessors and PAPs did to mainframes? (Author)