Cluster Computer Case Suggestions?
So I’ve recently come across a bunch of free computers and I’ve decided to try to hook them together to form a beowulf style cluster for running some of my simulations on since I think I can modify the code to be parallel. I have tested all of the computers and have them spread across my basement floor however I seem to have a problem. I need a way to enclose them into some sort of case or storage area. I don’t want to use wood and have been exploring some kind of plexiglass or similar material without much luck. So far the best idea I’ve seen has been the “Microwulf“.
Tags: Beowulf, Cluster Computing, Computer Science, Distributed Computing, Distributed Simulation, DIY Case, Linux, Microwulf, Parallel, Parallel Computing
Distributed Screen Saver Project
A couple of days ago while trying to stay awake while my simulations ran for hours, I came across this website: Electric Sheep. It seems like a really cool idea. It is a “distributed screensaver” that makes use of genetic algorithms to progress and improve itself. If the people who are using the screensaver press a button they can rate the screensaver good. This is then used as part of the fitness function in the genetic algorithm allowing the good screensavers to be carried along into the next generations.
Tags: Beowulf, Distributed Computing, Distributed Simulation, Electric Sheep, Screen Saver
Computer Science, A Science? Still debated…
As an update to my previous post on this subject “Computer Science, A Science?” more debate has taken place on the CompSci.ca forums and blog as a result of a blog post by Tony entitled “The most important programming language”. Many good points were made, for instance: Tony suggested that many people become confused between computer programming and computer science which I agree with.
Tags: Computer Science, Debate, Programming, Tony Targonski, Zeroth
Ubiquitous Computing vs Virtual Reality
Early this week, during a lecture at Guelph by Dr. Denko, I was introduced to the idea of ubiquitous computing. The idea was coined in the 1980’s by Mark Weiser at the Xerox Parc Lab. An extremely simplified defintion of ubiquitous computing on the laboratory website is where technology receds into the background of our lives. One person has many computers of various sizes and capabilities that aid the person in such a way that he/she takes for granted the computers are even there.
Tags: Mark Weiser, Mieso Denko, Ubiquitous Computing, University of Guelph
10 Applications of Wireless Networks
Wireless Networks have become very popular in recent years and research in the area is very active. It is one of my main research interests while studying for my M.Sc. in Applied Computing at the University of Guelph so I thought I would write a bit about what I think are some of the most useful or interesting applications of wireless networking both now and in the future.
Tags: Applications, Car PC - Home Music Synchronization, Community Wireless Network, Future, IBM, Networks, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Private Wireless Network, Remote Weather Stations, Sensor Networks, Technology, Wireless, Wireless Agriculture, Wireless Hospital, Wireless House, Wireless Mesh Networks, Wireless Networks, Wireless People, Wireless Power Transmission, Wireless Sensor Networks, Wireless Transit System
Ns-2.33 (and nam) on Ubuntu 8.04 (Hardy Heron)
