Solution of Partial Differential Equations on Vector Computers

In this paper we review the present status of numerical methods for partial differential equations on vector and parallel computers. A discussion of the relevant aspects of these computers and a brief review of their development is included, with par-ticular attention paid to those characteristics that influence algorithm selecUon. Both direct and iteraUve methods are given for elliptic equations as well as explicit and impli-cit methods for initial-boundary value problems. The intent is to point out attractive methods as well as areas where this class of computer architecture cannot be fully utilized because of either hardware restricUons or the lack of adequate algorithms. A brief dis-cussion of application areas utilizing these computers is included