A model for the standardization of design and implementation of HPC clusters to be used in universities is presented. Standardization is achieved by using an open-source operating system, network infrastructure, and software packages. The cluster is configured for universities intending to implement an HPC cluster for research or teaching use. No prior understanding of clusters is assumed but a basic understanding of programming, networking and computers in general is required.

1. 1
Standardized Construction ofStandardized Construction of
HPC Clusters for AcademicHPC Clusters for Academic
UsageUsage
By Bradford W. Bazemore
Georgia Southern University

2. 2
HPCHPC

Computing Centers
− Mainframes
− Supercomputers

PC
− Computing
Centers to
Computer Labs
− HPC is still
needed

3. 3
ClustersClusters

Used in many fields
− Engineering
− Physics
− Economics

Complicated to design
and build

4. 4
DesignDesign

GOAL
− “Turnkey” modern computing center

Operating System
− Linux/Unix

Nodes
− Front end
− Web
− Data
− Compute

Network
− Ethernet/Infiniband

5. 5
Proof of ConceptProof of Concept

Components
− University Surplus
− 12 IBM 1U servers

Intel Xeon
− 1 Dell Front End

Intel Core 2 Duo
− Cisco Catalyst
− Rocks Software

Linux

MPI

6. 6
Performance TestingPerformance Testing

MPI C
− Prime number search
1.5 billion numbers

7. 7
DataDataNotice the curve

8. 8
AnalysisAnalysis

Amdahl's Law
S p=
T1
T p
Pestimated =
1
SU
−1
1
NP
−1
S (N )=
1
(1−P)+
P
N
The Curves Match

9. 9
ConclusionConclusion

Clusters are vital to science

Standard “turnkey” design is needed

This design is validated

Future Work

10. 10
Thank YouThank You

Contact
− www.bradfordbazemore.com