University of Southampton provides Windows access to the UK National Grid Service
posted Thursday, September 20, 2007 4:11 PM by DennisCr |
The University of Southampton is the latest university to join the UK National Grid Service with affiliate status. The Microsoft Institute for High Performance Computing at the University will be providing access to the Microsoft Compute Cluster Service through a Globus gateway, the first instance of a Windows cluster being incorporated into a production level Grid. Prof. Simon Cox, Director of the Institute said “This is an exciting opportunity to offer, for the first time, Microsoft Windows Compute Cluster Server on the National Grid Service, where it will interoperate with other resources”.
A large proportion of the UK research community primarily use Windows based systems or are more familiar with Windows than other operating systems. The implementation of the Globus Gateway will allow the NGS to be accessed by a much larger number of researchers who will be able to carry out research under a more familiar operating system.
The CCS Globus Gateway provides access to a cluster under the Windows x64 platform using the normal Globus client tools and Grid security mechanism, therefore makes it possible to share the Windows based computational resources with a wider user base in the e-Science community.
About the University of Southampton
o The Microsoft Institute for High Performance Computing at the University of Southampton is part of the University's School of Engineering Sciences, which offers expertise in engineering disciplines that underpin every aspect of 21st century life. Evolving from its traditional engineering roots, the School continues to expand into new, exciting research areas. From orthopaedic implant modelling and modern fuel cell technologies, to enhancing satellite broadcast technology and improving the aerodynamics of Formula One racing cars and hydrodynamics of America's Cup yachts, the School is always at the leading edge of engineering research. www.mihpc.net
o The University of Southampton is a leading UK teaching and research institution with a global reputation for leading-edge research and scholarship. It is one of the UK's top 10 research universities, offering first-rate opportunities and facilities for study and research across a wide range of subjects in humanities, health, science and engineering. The University has around 20,000 students and over 5000 staff. Its annual turnover is in the region of £310 million. www.southampton.ac.uk