Options for future community and CSL computing upgrades

Two parallel architectures can provide atmospheric scientists with the level of performance they need -- parallel vector processor (PVP) systems and distributed shared memory (DSM), highly parallel, microprocessor systems. Following a recent Department of Commerce (DOC) determination that Japanese supercomputers were being offered to NCAR at less than fair value, NCAR terminated the associated procurement. When the DOC began its investigation in late FY96, NCAR recognized that Japanese machines might not ever be available and, thus, adopted the following strategy:

Prepare to switch to DSM systems,
Continue acquiring U.S. manufactured PVPs that offer good performance per unit of cost, and
Seek partnerships with national and international organizations.

In keeping with 1), SCD acquired a 64-processor DSM and initiated the Modeling 2000 project. In keeping with 2), during FY97 SCD installed two vector computers -- a Cray C90 and a Cray J9se.

Now that the final DOC determinations have been issued, SCD will continue with this strategy. We plan to continue providing good vector capability for both community users and CSL projects for at least two years, but beginning in FY98, DSM systems will be made available for both community and CSL users. If these systems prove satisfactory, additional DSM systems will be installed in FY99, and all PVPs will probably be decommissioned by early FY00. Thus, over the next two years, one of the highest priorities in SCD will be to assist all users in making the transition from PVPs to DSMs.

| Next page | Top of this section | Table of contents |