Chapter 14 - Designing Computer Architectures

A) Using Computers in Architecture Designs

• mainframes
• minicomputers
• microcomputers
• supercomputers

READ CASE (pp. 536-8)

• centralized vs. distributed(cooperative-based architecture)
• Interoperable - want to make optimum use of resources
• data ---> software ---> hardware decisions
• LANs vs. Mainframes
• PC-based Cooperative Design - downsizing [BlockBuster Video case]
• Interoperable Enterprisewide Cooperative Design (Fig. 14.4)

B) Evaluating and Acquiring the Computer Architecture

1) Prepare Request for Proposal (RFP) (pages 546-7)

• Systems Design
• General business information on vendor(including info from vendor's customers)
• Price and acquisition methods
• Overview of the benchmark test
• General performance criteria:
  • Documentation,
  • Ease of use,
  • quality of user interface,
  • compatability,
  • benchmark results,
  • vendor's personnel
  • Benchmark test management and schedule

2) Comparing Proposed Computer Architectures

• Processor-bound benchmarks: MIPS, Whetstone, Sieve, Dhrystone
• Input/Output Bound Benchmarks (Transactions per second and Response Time)

3) Negotiating Price and Contract Terms

• Compare contract with RFP
• Delivery date & Acceptance test
• Warranties
• Maintenance & Service [Mean Time to Respond (Repair) ]

4) Acquiring the Selected Computer Architecture

• Leasing
• Purchasing
• Outsourcing (contracting out to a vendor to do IS with company's equipment and personnel)
• InSourcing (division within company that does all its own IS

Exercises: look over 1-6; turn in 14.7, 14.8, 14.9