This is a very basic introduction to the world of parallel computing. I've tried to provide all the information needed to get started. There are also links to more additional information on more advanced topics. The last part is a basic introduction to designing and building cluster computers.

• Types of parallel computers
  • Parallel vector processors
  • Shared-memory multiprocessors
  • Distributed-memory MPP's
  • Cluster computers
  • Network computing
  • Metacomputing
  • MPP's with SMP nodes

• Communication Libraries
  • Message-passing libraries
  • One-sided communications
  • High-level libraries

• Why build a cluster?

• What is a cluster computer?
  • Building a 4-node cluster

• Designing a cluster computer
  • Choosing a processor
  • Designing the network
  • Which OS?
  • Loading up the software
  • Assembling the cluster
  • Pre-built clusters
  • Cluster administration

• Some example clusters
  • ALICE: Pentium cluster
  • IBM Power3 cluster
  • G4 cluster
  • Inferno: XP1000 cluster
  • C-Plant: Alpha cluster