Comparing Computing Machines

Reconfigurable computing devices are emerging as a viable alternative to fixed-function components and pro-grammable processors. To expand our knowledge of the role and optimization of these devices, it is increasingly imperative for us to compare implementations of tasks and subroutines across this wide spectrum of implementa-tion options. The fact that most processors, FPGAs, ASICs, and memories are fabricated in a uniform technology medium, CMOS VLSI, where area scaling is moderately well understood eases our comparison task. Nonetheless, the rapid pace of technology, limited device size selection, and economic artifacts complicate the picture. In this paper, we look at the task of comparing computing machines, reviewing normalization techniques and many important issues which arise during comparisons. This paper includes examples intended to underscore the methodology and comparison issues, but does not attempt to make definitive conclusions about the merits of the technology alterna-tives from the small sample set. The immediate intent of this work is to help designers faced with tradeoffs between technological alternatives. The longer term intent is to help the community collect and analyze the broad-based data needed to better understand the range of available computing options