A recent version of the Parallel Virtual Machine (PVM) computer program has been enhanced to enable use of multiple processors in a single node of a Beowulf system (a cluster of personal computers that runs the Linux operating system). A previous version of PVM had been enhanced by addition of a software port, denoted BEOLIN, that enables the incorporation of a Beowulf system into a larger parallel processing system administered by PVM, as though the Beowulf system were a single computer in the larger system. BEOLIN spawns tasks on (that is, automatically assigns tasks to) individual nodes within the cluster. However, BEOLIN does not enable the use of multiple processors in a single node. The present enhancement adds support for a parameter in the PVM command line that enables the user to specify which Internet Protocol host address the code should use in communicating with other Beowulf nodes. This enhancement also provides for the case in which each node in a Beowulf system contains multiple processors. In this case, by making multiple references to a single node, the user can cause the software to spawn multiple tasks on the multiple processors in that node.
This work was done by Paul Springer of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Semiconductors & ICs category.
The software used in this innovation is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (818) 393-2827. Refer to NPO-41706.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
PVM Enhancement for Beowulf Multiple-Processor Nodes
(reference NPO-41706) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) concerning the "PVM Enhancement for Beowulf Multiple-Processor Nodes," identified by the NASA Tech Briefs number NPO-41706. It is part of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, which aims to disseminate aerospace-related developments that have potential technological, scientific, or commercial applications.
The document outlines the procedures and requirements for software dissemination, particularly for software developed at JPL. It emphasizes the importance of compliance with U.S. export regulations and proprietary information considerations. The PVM (Parallel Virtual Machine) software version 3.4.4 is mentioned as a previously existing code that is not developed at JPL but is relevant to the enhancements being discussed.
Key points include the need for approval when disseminating JPL-developed software outside the organization. A specific form is required for this process, and the Intellectual Assets Office at JPL is responsible for managing dissemination requests. The document notes that there is an outstanding request from a government agency for the software, indicating its relevance and potential utility in governmental projects.
The document also highlights the role of the Open Channel Software Foundation in the wide dissemination of JPL-developed software. Open Channel has an agreement with Caltech to host JPL software, allowing for broader access and collaboration. Developers are encouraged to contribute to the Open Channel site by providing bug fixes and additional information about their software.
Furthermore, the document addresses the need for formal agreements when collaborating with external parties, especially if non-JPL developers are involved. It stresses the importance of obtaining permission from these developers before any open-source or open-channel software releases can occur.
Overall, the Technical Support Package serves as a guideline for JPL personnel on how to manage the dissemination of software, ensuring that all legal and procedural requirements are met while promoting the sharing of innovative technologies developed at JPL. The document is a crucial resource for understanding the intersection of aerospace technology development and software management within NASA's framework.
