Design and implementation of a multicomputer interconnection network using FPGAs

We present an experience of using FPGAs in the design and implementation of a multicomputer interconnection network. The switching element, the router and the network controllers are all designed and implemented with FPGAs, and cooperatively form a four port by four port interconnection network. The switching elements were designed with ASIC before, but were not very successful. Advantages of using FPGAs over traditional ASIC design are discussed.