The Soul of an Old Machine: Revisiting the Timeless von Neumann Architecture

The author discusses the future of computing in a talk, referencing Leslie Lamport’s idea that understanding computing is vital. The author then delves into the origins of “von Neumann Architecture,” highlighting controversial aspects such as the leak of a draft report accelerating computing progress and the debate on RISC vs. CISC hardware design. The paper’s details demonstrate foresight, such as predictions about memory hierarchy and binary vs. decimal number systems. Unique insights include von Neumann’s skepticism towards floating-point numbers and the practicalities of memory capacity. The author humorously points out technological advancements since the paper’s publication and the ongoing relevance of these early computing concepts.

https://ankush.dev/p/neumann_architecture

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