Pooch 1.4 updated

, an update to its the Parallel OperatiOn and Control Heuristic application. This version debuts a new graphically-based, dynamic job queue and scheduling system taking advantage of Pooch's built-in heuristic functions and cluster diagnostics. It also sports an updated graphical user interface taking advantage of features introduced in Panther.

"The new Pooch adds supercomputing-level capabilities to a uniquely easy-to-use parallel computing solution already recognized as innovative", said Dr. Dean Dauger, President of Dauger Research. "While other solutions force users through complex configuration, fragility, and arcane commands, Pooch, with the lowest barrier to entry, enables its users to harness the power of parallel computing with ease. Pooch revolutionizes how people build and use parallel computers."




Pooch combines powerful, numerically-intensive parallel-computing clusters with the famed ease-of-use of the Macintosh. While blurring the distinction between cluster and grid computing, Pooch is the only solution that merges a modern graphical user interface with parallel computing. It provides the user interface for the latest incarnation of AppleSeed, a UCLA Physics project begun in 1998.



Version 1.4 is the latest in a series of updates that utilize the latest technology. Pooch was the first to use Rendezvous to discover nodes for computation. Pooch takes advantage of AppleScript and multiprocessing in Mac OS X, utilizes logged out Mac OS X machines for parallel computing, and supports automated grid behavior and cluster access for other desktop applications. Pooch 1.4 supports three different MPI implementations to take advantage of parallel computing within boxes and across boxes simultaneously. It also includes a suite of utilities designed for remote, command-line installation and access.



Pooch v1.4 is available for $175 for the first compute node then $125 for each node thereafter. Special academic pricing is listed on the web site.

by MacNN Staff