By utilising the new Windows HPC Server 2008 R2 technology, H&D is accessing the performance of desktop systems for complex calculations.

High-performance computing is often needed on a short-term basis for numerical calculations, often requiring expensive solutions.

Modern multicore processors on the other hand often have enormous capacity that is not fully utilised, for example during off-peak hours, on weekends, and in the training sector.

To investigate the potential usabilty of these resources, H&D has developed a prototype for a High Performance Computing Cluster.

The prototype is based on a Windows HPC Server 2008, which provides both enhanced scalability and high performance as well as seamless integration into the customary Windows environment.

H&D is one of the first companies in Germany to implement this product.

The cluster is currently comprised of 10 components, and plans are underway for further expansion.

The applications include programs from the area of computational fluid mechanics, VECTIS and OpenFoam. Our initial efforts will include feasibility and performance studies as well as a the groundwork for a cost-benefit analysis for the concept.

Contact person at H&D: Alexander Dust