Designing a CPU from scratch may already be a monumental task, but what about designing a GPU? Many may think that the process is similar, but one determined software engineer, Adam Majmudar, set out to create a GPU from the ground up and quickly realized the difficulties involved. In a series of tweets, Majmudar shared his journey from learning the basics of central processor architecture to the complexities of GPU design.
Majmudar started his project by delving into the fundamentals behind central processor architecture, understanding the inner workings of CPUs before progressing to designing a complete CPU. This process, although challenging, was made simpler with modern software packages and hardware description languages. However, despite the advancements in technology, the task of creating a CPU from scratch was still a formidable challenge.
Flushed with success from his CPU design, Majmudar decided to take on the challenge of designing a GPU. While CPUs and GPUs share similarities in their basic structure, Majmudar soon discovered that GPUs have unique characteristics in terms of memory usage and thread management. It’s important to note that his goal was not to create a graphics GPU but rather a GPGPU, focusing on the processing power of the unit rather than specialized graphics functions.
As Majmudar delved deeper into GPU design, he encountered several obstacles along the way. With the help of others, he was able to address issues and fine-tune his design to ensure its functionality. Eventually, his basic GPU design was able to execute a small number of instructions and handle matrix calculations in software simulation.
Majmudar’s dedication to his project extended beyond personal achievement. He made the decision to share his entire project on Github, allowing others to access valuable resources and gain insights into GPU hardware design. This act of sharing not only contributes to the knowledge base but also opens up opportunities for collaboration and further exploration in the field of GPU design.
The journey of designing a GPU from scratch is not for the faint of heart. It requires a deep understanding of processor architecture, creativity, perseverance, and a willingness to overcome challenges. Adam Majmudar’s project serves as a testament to the complexities involved in GPU design and the importance of sharing knowledge within the tech community. While the task may seem daunting, the rewards of pushing the boundaries of hardware design can lead to new discoveries and innovations in the field.
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