Two models of computation which are suitable for the description of parallel scientific calculations on large data structures are presented. Data parallel assignment is a construct which may be used to specify the application of a set of order independent fine grained operations to a regular data structure. It is formulated in a machine independent way and, consequently, is suitable for implementation on a range of novel parallel architectures. An operational model of data parallel computation is provided by specifying a model array processor. The specification captures the essential features of the class of array processors and it may be instantiated in order to define a particular machine. A formal operational semantics of data parallel assignment is given for the model array processor. The translation mechanism is shown to be correct. The exercise clarifies some of the issues in deciding whether or not it is feasible to translate data parallel assignment directly onto array processor architectures.
This paper outlines current research into a prescriptive semantics of Fortran 95, as a means of investigating the language's strengths and shortcomings. Additionally, it is intended that this research will provide a foundation for the application of rigor to Fortran programming.
A set of lairs for data parallel assignment is outlined. The laws illustrate the mathematical tractability of this programming construct and provide a means of correctly transforming a complex assignment into a sequence of simpler assignments which m~v then be interpreted on a variety of parallel architectures.
This paper presents the results of a survey of Fortran users. The users were asked to identify the dialects of Fortran used, other languages used, target architectures, feature utilization (data-parallel, object-orientation and abstract data typing), views on formalism in programming, and views on standard Fortran and the standardization process. The results showed that the feature requirements of sequential and parallel users are divergent, but that in general Fortran programmers are assimilating all that technology has to offer.
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