Basics of ZPL

ZPL -- A Practical Parallel Language

•ZPL was designed and built using the CTA model, so like C

•Semantics are defined relative to the model

•Compiler and run-time system assume the model

… so ZPL programs are efficient for any CTA computer

•ZPL designed from “1st principles” meaning…

•ZPL is not an extension of existing language -- it’s new

•Careful analysis of programming task: XYZ-levels

•No programming “fads”: functional, OO, “miracle” solutions

•Search for new ideas that help parallel programmers

•Focus on “user needs,” e.g. scientific computation

ZPL is the third attempt -- Spot and Orca “failed”