HPC Workshop

Abstract

If your personal computer is too slow for processing your big datasets, or your analysis is computationally extensive, then High Performance Computing (HPC) is the tool you need! Come along to the “Introduction to HPC” hands-on workshop to:

• understand the RCC advanced computing platforms that are available and which are suited to their work
• log in to HPC systems
• know how to transfer data files to and from a HPC
• safely use software interactively on HPC
• get batch jobs submitted and running
• be thinking about how to best utilise HPC in their research

Even experienced linux HPC users, can benefit from the overview of UQ’s Advanced Computing Strategy and cluster configurations as well as the opportunity to discuss with RCC staff how they can use HPC for their research.

HPC systems facilitated by the RCC, are based on Linux operating systems. The Intro to HPC training will assume that you already have a basic grounding in the use of the Linux command line.

In order to get the best out of the training session, you should endeavour to acquire some competency in Linux command line before attending training or attempting to use HPC systems. You can acquire Linux command line experience through self-study materials such as the Software Carpentry … The Unix Shell module which covers basic Unix shell skills.

If you are attending the session please do the following:

1. Ensure you have an active account on at least one of the HPC systems.

Awoonga, FlashLite or Tinaroo. The cluster pages explain how to apply. It is a two-step process, so don’t forget to do step 2! If you are not sure which HPC to apply for, then we recommend you apply for Tinaroo for this training session.

We also recommend that you bookmark the RCC HPC web page as it provides links to details of clusters, mechanisms for applying for accounts and user guides etc.

2. Bring an EduRoam capable laptop or tablet with you, if you can.

Bio

Dr David Green is the HPC Manager at Research Computing Centre, UQ. David majored in physics and applied mathematics at UQ and his first real science job was in environmental modelling for the Queensland Electricity Commission. After completing his PhD at the University of Sydney on electrochromic switchable window coatings for buildings, he worked as an academic in the Applied Physics and Computer Systems departments at the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) for almost 15 years. David career-changed into research computing support roles and joined The University of Queensland as HPC Manager within ITS in 2007. He has long been using computers to “figure stuff out” and enjoys working with researchers to help them do the same.