Introduction to Parallel and Distributed Computing (326.081/326.0VR, SS 2014)

The efficient application of parallel and distributed systems (multi-processors and computer networks) is nowadays an important task for computer scientists and mathematicians. The goal of this course is to provide an integrated view of the various facets of software development on such systems: hardware architectures, programming languages and models, software development tools, software engineering concepts and design patterns, performance modeling and analysis, experimenting and measuring.

Class presentation will be accompanied by hands-on experience on an SGI Altix 4700 distributed shared memory multiprocessor using the following programming models:

• Auto-parallelization and OpenMP (Intel C/C++ or Fortran),
• Java multi-threading and networking API,
• Message Programming Interface (MPI-C/C++ or Fortran).

Some background in programming in C/C++ and/or Fortran and/or Java is assumed. Course grades will be based on a couple of programming exercises.

To take part in the course, you have to enrol in the KUSSS system. Since the exercises will be submitted via Moodle, you also have to login in Moodle and register as a course participant. You will then also receive per email all messages posted in the News forum.