A New IBM SP for supporting HKU ACEnet

A new 8-node IBM SP (scalable parallel) ) supercomputer is deployed in the setup of ACEnet (Access Everywhere Network).

This computer is symmetric-multi-processing (SMP) and can run different jobs simultaneously.  In order to enhance the system availability, the 8 nodes are logically divided into 4 units providing the following distinct services:

Each of these services is provided by a pair of SP nodes by the deployment of HA (high availability) software.  The logical allocation of the 8-node SP computer is shown in the following diagram.


 

Importance of HA (High Availability)

HA (High Availability) computing is an essential element in providing a stable and reliable computing environment to end-users.  With the complement of high availability management software, redundant computing devices/peripherals in a high availability system will automatically take over/share the system services whenever any part of the system fails.  This would eliminate any single point failure in the HA system.  With the HA system in place, the interruption of service of all mission critical applications can be automatically recovered in a short period of time during unattended hours of operation.
 
File and Print Server

Two SP2 nodes are configured to upgrade our existing File and Print server.  This file server serves all of our HKU students within the campus network.  By the deployment of IBM HACMP (High Availability Computer Management Program) software, we expect to deliver smooth, non-interruptible computing services to our users.  Moreover, a disk array with raw capacity of 720GB will be put into service soon.  Equipped with this large capacity, more disk space can be allocated to users to cope with their ever-growing demands.

ACENet Gateway

The firewall serves as a gateway to connect the ACEnet to the campus Intranet (as well as the Internet).  Apart from this basic functionality, the firewall also imposes security measures to protect the ACEnet from unauthorised access and any suspicious connections.

ACEnet Proxy

The proxy server provides an intelligent caching system to speed up web access.  Having two SP nodes running the HACMP software, the proxy server not only speeds up the ACEnet users' web access but also reduces the Internet traffic significantly.  This would improve the overall throughput of our campus network.

WebCT Server

WebCT (Web Course Tools) is a user-friendly tool for teaching staff to publish their course materials on the campus Intranet.  Again, the WebCT server is maintained by 2 of the 8 SP nodes running in parallel to provide speedy and reliable access.  By publishing the course materials online, students can easily access useful information anywhere in the campus via ACEnet or any other Computer Centre access points.

The launch of ACENet and its complementary computing services promote the use of IT (information technology) in education.  This marks a significant milestone towards the proposed  Digital University Initiative.

T.Y. Kan
Tel: 2859 7979
E-mail: kty@cc.hku.hk


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