Using the GWDG Scientific Compute Cluster

Content

For first-time users, the Linux operating system on the GWDG cluster represents a significant entry hurdle, as does preparing their programs and using the batch system. This course is intended to provide a smooth introduction to the topic. We start with connecting to the cluster and give an overview of the most important Linux commands. Compilation and installation of software is then covered. Finally, an outline of the efficient use of computing resources with the batch system is given.

The course shall help new users to get started interacting with the HPC cluster of the GWDG and shows optimal ways to carry out computations.

Note on the language of the course: We prepare the slides for the course in English, but we can also present in German if all participants understand German.

Requirements

• For the practical exercises: GWDG account (preferable) or course account (available upon request)
• Own notebook

Learning goal

• Architecture of the GWDG Cluster
• Connecting with SSH using SSH keys
• Linux shell basics
• Using the module system/SPACK
• Software compilation with cluster specifics
• Using the scheduler/SLURM in interactive and batch mode
• Partitions and resources
• Working on the different file systems (home, scratch, tmp, local)

Skills

• USE1.1 Command Line Interface
• USE1.2 Shell Scripts
• USE1.3 UNIX File System Tree
• USE1.4 Remote Access
• USE1.5.1 Environment Modules
• USE1.5.2 Spack
• USE2.1 Job Scheduling
• USE2.2 Job Scripts
• USE3 Building of Parallel Programs
• K4.1 Basic principles of Job Scheduling

Trainer

• Matthias Eulert
• Dr. Kevin Lüdemann

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