Presenter:
Laurie Barrum

Paper:
Networking the SP2 Supercomputing Facility

Synopsis:

Networking the IBM SP2 Supercomputer presented a unique set of challenges for the QPSF (Queensland Parallel Supercomputing Facility). How do you connect to a machine that is itself a very high speed network of powerful processors? Where should bandwidth be supplied when the requirements change for each of its three modes of operation? How do you provide the best possible remote and local access?

This paper describes the design process that was used and relates the experiences of implementing and managing the network. The technology chosen was a combination of FDDI and an Ethernet switch. Although they are both technologies that have been in the marketplace for some time, it is the first time they have been used together in a Queensland University.

Biography:

        Barram, Laurence F.; Educated Qld Inst of Tech, Cert Elect Eng -
                             Electronics & Comms; MSEA, MACS;
                             Info Tech Exp 18 yrs.

Laurie's IT career began in 1976 with the Prentice Computer Centre at The University of Queensland. He stayed with Prentice for 13 years working on a wide variety of hardware and finally as Network Manager. During 1991 he spent 11 months working as Network Manager for the Department of Industrial Relations in Canberra. Laurie was appointed to his present position of Data Communications Manager with the Information Technology Services department at Griffith University in January 1992. Laurie is in his fifth year (part-time) of study for his Bachelor Degree in Commerce.