Computer Performance Analysis: Measurement Objectives and Tools,
Abstract:
The report is concerned with the recognition of objectives and the choice of measurement tools for computer performance analysis. In addition to the conventional tuning objectives, model building, simulation validation, and operational control are important. Data collection tools for measurement and analysis range from simple, inexpensive ones --audio and visual indicators, operator opinions, and logs--to the most sophisticated hardware and software monitors. Each of the simple tools can provide initial indications of performance, but hardware and software monitors are usually necessary for a thorough analysis. Five binary characteristics can describe a monitor 1 implementation medium, 2 separability, 3 sample portion, 4 analysis concurrency, and 5 data presentation. An analyst should determine the characteristics his analysis requires before choosing the measurement tools. Author