- A simulator maintains an internal model of the world. It receives control inputs, updates the model to reflect them, and displays the changed model. It must process inputs in real time in order to maintain an accurate simulation, and it must generate output in real time to keep up with the display hardware.
Silicon Graphics systems are well suited to programming many kinds of simulators.
- A data collection system receives input from reporting devices, for example telemetry receivers, and stores the data. It may be required to process, reduce, analyze or compress the data before storing it. It must react in real time in order to avoid losing data.
Silicon Graphics systems are suited to many data collection tasks.
- A process control system monitors the state of an industrial process and constantly adjusts it for efficient, safe operation. It must react in real time to avoid waste, damage, or hazardous operating conditions.
Although Silicon Graphics systems can be used for process control, dedicated process-control computers are sometimes a more economical choice for these uses.