ParallelKnoppix - Rapid Deployment of a Linux Cluster for MPI Parallel Processing Using Non-Dedicated Computers

Abstract

This note describes ParallelKnoppix, a bootable CD that allows creationof a Linux cluster in very little time. An experienced user can create a cluster ready to execute MPI programsin less than 10 minutes. The computers used may be heterogeneous machines, of the IA-32 architecture. When the cluster is shut down, all machines except one are in their original state, and the last can be returned to its original state by deleting a directory. The system thus provides a means of using non-dedicated computers to create a cluster. An example session is documented.