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Networked Computing
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boy8cookie
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Sep 16, 2008, 03:18 PM
 
Does anyone know anything about networked computing with Macs? I'm curious as to what the options are. Of course, there is Xgrid, which is seemingly limited, and the information on getting it working with apps other than Apple's is even more limited. So yeah, I'm just looking for any information really, like what kind of improvements can I expect by utilizing networked computing, what, if any, are the options on the hardware & software sides? Most of the computers I'm using are networked over Fiber & Gig E, will I be able to utilize the Fiber?

Any information is appreciated, thanks in advance.
     
lexapro
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Sep 16, 2008, 05:19 PM
 
Are Macs still using Sneakernet?
     
olePigeon
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Sep 16, 2008, 07:43 PM
 
Believe it or not, Xgrid is about as simple as it gets when it comes to grid and cluster computing. Your other option is Beowulf. Many applications that are designed to work over clusters or grids include Xgrid plugins. Maya, Lightwave, and MATLAB come to mind. There are several other scientific applications that take advantage of Xgrid.

From what I understand, Xgrid is as much of a programming API as it is a networking tool. Applications have to be built to be Xgrid aware.

According to Apple, you need at least 3 computers. The task server (OS X Server), the controllers (i.e. the cluster), and the client sending the task. The cluster can be any Mac. Apparently Xgrid is included with OS X Client as well as the Server, though it's command-line only. There are a few applications out there that will let you manage Xgrid through a custom GUI.

I have no real experience in using Xgrid, so you're going to have to do some research on your own. Likewise with Beowulf, which looks even more complicated than Xgrid.

You can use gigabit ethernet or fiber.
"…I contend that we are both atheists. I just believe in one fewer god than
you do. When you understand why you dismiss all the other possible gods,
you will understand why I dismiss yours." - Stephen F. Roberts
     
olePigeon
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Sep 16, 2008, 07:52 PM
 
A quick Google and I found this:

http://daugerresearch.com/pooch/

It's called Pooch. It's been around since System 8 and is designed for Parallel/Cluster computing just for the Mac.

The website even has video tutorials on how to set it up and everything. This looks like your best bet.
"…I contend that we are both atheists. I just believe in one fewer god than
you do. When you understand why you dismiss all the other possible gods,
you will understand why I dismiss yours." - Stephen F. Roberts
     
boy8cookie  (op)
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Sep 16, 2008, 08:01 PM
 
I appreciate you taking your time to post that, it was a good read. My main concern now, I guess, is can the applications being used in my group take advantage of the networked computing.
     
Dual Porpoise
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Sep 16, 2008, 08:10 PM
 
What applications are you using?
     
boy8cookie  (op)
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Sep 16, 2008, 08:12 PM
 
Several, on the Mac side of things: After Effects 7, FCS2, Shake.

On the Windows side, we have a few people using XSI.

The main goal is to reduce time on compositing renders (After Effects).
     
lexapro
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Sep 16, 2008, 09:28 PM
 
Keep us posted. This is actually a really interesting thread.
     
   
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