The latest version of the Parallel Virtual Machine (PVM) computer program, denoted PVM 3.4.3, incorporates a massively-parallel-processor (MPP) software port that enables a user working on a computer outside a Beowulf system (a cluster of personal computers that run the Linux operating system) to incorporate the Beowulf system, as though it were a single computer, into the larger parallel machine administered by PVM. One of the big advantages of PVM is its ability to easily tie together heterogeneous computing systems. However, up to now, there has been no way to spawn a PVM task from outside a Beowulf system onto one of the nodes of the cluster if the node lacks an externally visible Internet Protocol (IP) address. The Beowulf/Linux port of PVM 3.4.3, denoted BEOLIN, was incorporated to overcome this limitation. The user need only add the externally visible address of the cluster host (one of the computers in the cluster that acts as a "front end" for communication between outside computers and the computers in the cluster). Thereafter, the BEOLIN code automatically assigns tasks to individual nodes within the cluster while hiding the details of the cluster from the user.
This program was written 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.nasatech.com/tsp under the Software category. PVM 3.4.3 is available for download from http://www.epm.ornl.gov/pvm/ .
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Don Hart of the California Institute of Technology at (818) 393-3425. Refer to NPO-21048.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
MPP Port of PVM to a Beowulf Computer System
(reference NPO-21048) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
Don't have an account?
Overview
The document is a technical support package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory that focuses on the Parallel Virtual Machine (PVM) software, specifically version 3.4.3. PVM is a software framework that enables the development and execution of parallel applications across distributed computing environments. This version introduces significant enhancements, particularly the ability to integrate Beowulf computer systems into larger parallel computing setups, addressing previous limitations related to network accessibility.
The document outlines the purpose of PVM, which is to facilitate the execution of parallel applications by allowing multiple computers to work together as a single virtual machine. It details the architecture of PVM, explaining how it manages communication and coordination among different nodes in a network. The installation notes provide guidance on setting up the software, ensuring users can effectively deploy PVM in their computing environments.
Additionally, the document discusses the running of PVM applications, offering insights into how users can leverage the software to optimize performance and resource utilization. It emphasizes the flexibility of PVM in adapting to various hardware configurations and network topologies, making it suitable for a wide range of applications in scientific computing and research.
The document also touches on the licensing options available for PVM, ensuring that users are aware of the legal considerations when utilizing the software. It highlights the collaborative nature of the project, acknowledging the contributions of various individuals, including the inventor Paul L. Springer, who played a pivotal role in the development of PVM.
In conclusion, the technical support package serves as a comprehensive resource for users interested in PVM 3.4.3, providing essential information on its features, installation, and application. It underscores the importance of parallel computing in advancing scientific research and the role of PVM in facilitating this process. The document is a valuable tool for researchers and developers looking to harness the power of parallel processing in their work.
