Chapter 14: Future Directions in Computer Architectures

This chapter anticipates the road ahead for computer architecture design. We will review the significant technological advances and ongoing trends that have led us to the current state of computer architectures. We will then extrapolate from current trends and identify some of the directions that computing system designs are likely to take in the future. We will also examine some potentially disruptive technologies that may alter the evolution of future computer architectures.

This chapter offers some suggested approaches for the professional development of the computer architect. By following these recommendations, you should be able to maintain a skill set that remains relevant and tolerant of future advances, whatever they turn out to be.

After completing this chapter, you will understand the historical evolution of computer architecture that led to its current state and will be familiar with ongoing trends in computer...