Measuring Computer Performance: A Practitioner's Guide

Measuring Computer Performance sets out the fundamental techniques used in analyzing and understanding the performance of computer systems. Throughout the book, the emphasis is on practical methods of measurement, simulation, and analytical modeling. The author discusses performance metrics and provides detailed coverage of the strategies used in benchmark programmes. He gives intuitive explanations of the key statistical tools needed to interpret measured performance data. He also describes the general 'design of experiments' technique, and shows how the maximum amount of information can be obtained for the minimum effort. The book closes with a chapter on the technique of queueing analysis. Appendices listing common probability distributions and statistical tables are included, along with a glossary of important technical terms. This practically-oriented book will be of great interest to anyone who wants a detailed, yet intuitive, understanding of computer systems performance analysis.