Includes bibliographical references and index.

This guide illuminates the intricate relationship between data management, computer architecture, and system software. It traces the evolution of computing to today's data-centric focus and underscores the importance of hardware-software co-design in achieving efficient data processing systems with high throughput and low latency. The thorough coverage includes topics such as logical data formats, memory architecture, GPU programming, and the innovative use of ray tracing in computational tasks. Special emphasis is placed on minimizing data movement within memory hierarchies and optimizing data storage and retrieval. Tailored for professionals and students in computer science, this book combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, making it an indispensable resource for anyone wanting to master the synergies between data management and computing infrastructure.