Computation tasks have become more demanding of computers, requiring greater processing speed and larger data-handling capacity than ever before. This text approaches these tasks from an R&D perspective, and presents solutions that focus on improvements in the system domain. Contributed to by 20 recognized experts from the nations's leading universities and research institutions in the field of computer architecture, this book combines the latest information on uniprocessor and multiprocessor design based on their mode of use: numeric, functional, or symbolic. The authors' knowledge and experience are brought together to create a unique view of 12 carefully selected topics, including: VLSI processor architecture; RISC types; design trade-offs for processors based on both silicon and GaAs technologies; addressing solutions for increasing machine performance; concepts and systems of numeric and symbolic processing; and new advances in supercomputers, and architectural support for artificial intelligence. The book clearly presents concepts and techniques using simple but effective examples and representative case studies.