The Impact of Data Ordering Strategies on a Distributed Hierarchical Multipole Algorithm

William T. Rankin, John A. Board, Jr. and Valerie L. Henderson

Abstract

We present an analysis of the communications and performance implications of different data mapping schemes for a distributed multipole-based N-body algorithm. Hierarchical multipole-based algorithms provide an $O(N)$ solution for the computation of N-body interactions and are used extensively in a number of research fields. In this paper, we will compare the use of Morton, Hilbert and row/column ordering for the mapping of the hierarchical oct-tree structures onto an arbitrary number of distributed processing elements. The intent of these investigations is to determine the optimal strategy to maximize spatial locality and minimize data movement between processors. In most cases, Hilbert ordering proves to be the best. Results are presented which describe both network bandwidth requirements, as well as the overall performance impact of the various orderings


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This page last modified 4/8/99 bu Bill Rankin