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Using Shared HPC Resources

Be considerate of others in the user community when you work with these shared computing and storage resources. Here are a few key issues to keep in mind.

Use login nodes only for their intended purposes

You can run short, non-memory-intensive processes on the login nodes. These include tasks such as text editing or running small serial scripts or programs. Memory-intensive processes that slow login node performance for all users are killed automatically and the responsible parties are notified by email. See Appropriate use of login nodes for more information.

Use the Derecho and Casper nodes that best meet your needs

The Derecho system and Casper nodes are configured for distinct purposes. Derecho is best used for running climate and weather models and simulations while the Casper cluster of nodes is for other specialized work. Most Casper nodes are used for analyzing and visualizing data while others feature large-memory, dense GPU configurations that support explorations in machine learning and deep learning.

This documentation explains how to get jobs running on the most appropriate system for your work and on the individual types of nodes that will best meet your needs:

For expert assistance or guidance in using these resources, contact the NSF NCAR Research Computing help desk.

Don't monopolize compute resources

Consider what impact you might have on the work of others and schedule jobs accordingly. For example, avoid writing job submission scripts that rapidly fill the scheduler with potentially concurrent compute resource requests. Contact the Consulting Services Group for guidance if your workload requires you to submit numerous jobs in a short time frame. CISL monitors the use of these resources and will kill jobs when necessary to ensure fair access for all users.

Limit your use of shared licenses

Users share a limited number of licenses for running IDL, MATLAB, Mathematica, and some other applications. Be familiar with and follow the established license-use guidelines to ensure fair access for all users. CISL reserves the right to kill jobs/tasks of users who monopolize these licenses.