Transputers

Transputer IMOS T212

The transputers were the first general purpose microprocessors for parallel computing systems. The transputers were part of a series of new microprocessors in the 1980s. They were designed for parallel computing. Each transputer had its own integrated memory and serial communication links to exchange data with other transputers.

The word Transputer comprises the shortforms of trans from transister and puter from computer. The name represents transistors that are used like bricks to build the microcompter.

There were three main types of first generation transputers:-
16 bit transputers (known as the T2 or T2xx). IMS T212 has a 16-bit processor and 16-bit external memory interface.
32 bit transputers with a floating point unit (known as the T8 or T8xx),
32 bit transputers without a floating point unit (known as the T4 or T4xx)

Photo taken of the inside of a transputer

New transputers are no longer being made by the original manufacturer, INMOS. The original company was acquired, and making the processors discontinued.
For enthusiasts and hobbyists, there are some ways to engage with the technology:

Emulators: Software emulators exist that can run transputer code, allowing for experimentation with the architecture and the occam programming language.
FPGA Implementations: Hobbyist and academic projects have recreated transputer designs (such as the T42 Transputer-in-FPGA) using Field-Programmable Gate Arrays, allowing the creation of functional transputer systems on modern hardware.
Legacy Hardware: Original transputer boards and modules (TRAMs) occasionally become available for purchase through enthusiast channels and online marketplaces such as eBay UK.
Modern Resonances: Companies like XMOS have produced embedded multi-core processors that use design principles similar to those of the transputer, such as the network-on-a-chip approach.