Decades removed from the days when “computer” was a human job description, computers these days crunch numbers at blinding speeds.
High-performance computing developed from the need for scientists, engineers, and business leaders to solve large, complex problems quicker than a typical run-of-the-mill computer could manage. Desktop computers don’t have enough processing power to solve multiple problems simultaneously, giving rise to the need for supercomputers and parallel processing.
As the need for high-performance computing increases, it’s becoming more accessible, with companies such as SUSE offering on-demand HPC services. What does HPC mean for your industry? Here’s everything you need to know about high-performance computing.
What is HPC?
High-performance computing (HPC) is the practice of amassing computer power to increase performance above a typical desktop or workstation computer. This massive power increase can solve complex problems or multiple problems at a time. HPC typically refers to supercomputers and parallel processing.
The development of high-performance computing came from increased demand for more incredible processing speed. HPC can solve complex computing problems quickly by combining various technologies, such as algorithms, software, computer architecture, and other electronics, into one massive entity. This combination of computing technologies makes it perfect for industries that regularly need to process large amounts of data or solve complex problems, such as drug companies or aviation manufacturers.
Not all HPC processes are supercomputer-based. Integrating numerous small computers into an interconnected cluster also provides HPC capabilities without equipment like a supercomputer.
How does it work?
High-performance computing has three major components: the computer, the network, and storage. The configuration of these components differs depending on the HPC structure. Various HPC structures include supercomputers, cloud-based HPC, and HPC clusters.
HPC Supercomputers
Enterprises concerned with security and privacy issues might choose to invest in building their own supercomputers. Unlike relying on cloud-based HPC, where companies cannot control the location of stored data, owning and operating a supercomputer gives enterprises greater authority over where their data is stored and secured.
What sets a supercomputer apart from your run-of-the-mill desktop computer isn’t only the computer’s architecture and room-sized hardware. It’s also how the computer processes data. A typical desktop computer uses serial processes, meaning the computer processes one object at a time. Conversely, a supercomputer uses parallel processing, meaning those operating these machines can process multiple objects simultaneously.
Parallel processing splits problems into different pieces and works on each piece at the same time. In short, parallel processing computers can walk and chew gum at the same time.
Cloud-Based HPC
Because of the development of online cloud services, companies seeking access to HPC supercomputers no longer need to spend millions of dollars on building and operating their own supercomputer. As mentioned above, using cloud-based HPC services is a less secure alternative to owning and operating a supercomputer since the company using the service doesn’t have control over the computer’s location and its storage infrastructure. However, it is also a more affordable approach than developing an in-house supercomputer.
HPC on the cloud operates like any other cloud-based program to provide users with on-demand HPC services. By connecting to the cloud service, users have flexible access to powerful HPC from anywhere in the world.
HPC Cluster
Cluster-type HPC is far less expensive than its supercomputer counterparts and a popular alternative. In this high-performance computing method, multiple computer servers network together to form a cluster. The cluster’s servers can run algorithms or programs concurrently, boosting processing power and speed. To access the results of the executed programs, the cluster’s network connects to data storage.
Why is HPC Important?
The demand for HPC is increasing each year as more and more scientists, engineers, and business leaders encounter more extensive and more complex problems. Without HPC, the amount of time and resources necessary to solve these problems would be untenable.
Applications of HPC
High-performance computing is becoming a significant research component in dozens of industries, including financial services, health care, oil and gas, entertainment, machine learning and artificial intelligence, big data, and environmental modeling. As technology enables these industries to accrue more data than ever before, those industries also need computers capable of processing that data.
Financial Services
HPC can monitor real-time stock trends and automate trading, increasing the efficiency of the financial industry as a whole.
Health Care
HPC capabilities allow scientists and doctors to research diseases like diabetes and cancer more quickly and accurately by comparing data from thousands of patients and trials.
Oil and Gas
High-performance computing helps companies identify where to drill new oil and gas wells. It also can increase the efficiency of existing wells.
Entertainment
HPC can edit major films, stream live events, and even create special effects in the entertainment industry. Anything that would fry the average computer, an HPC can do with ease.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
Using HPC, professionals can better screen patients for cancer, identify credit card fraud, offer technical support, and even teach self-driving vehicles.
Environmental Modeling
Scientists are better able to predict earthquakes and other natural disasters through HPC. Meteorologists can use high-performance computing to predict global weather more accurately, and environmentalists can use the process to create more effective and accurate policies.
Benefits of High-Performance Computing
HPC is a multi-billion dollar industry that continues to grow. The industry is adapting as demands for greater access to HPC services are made, and there are many benefits to an investment in high-performance computing.
Cost Efficiency
Although obtaining an HPC system can be pricey initially, high-performance computing systems eventually pay for themselves through sheer power and versatility. Having access to increased processing capabilities allows businesses to anticipate and predict trends faster than ever, which is why this cutting-edge technology has become so popular in the business world.
Accessibility
Supercomputers of the past were built and operated in exclusive environments that restricted other users’ and companies’ access to the technology. Today, with the rise of cloud-based HPC services and the popularity of HPC cluster systems, the benefits and applications of high-performance computing are accessible to virtually anyone who wants it.
Increased Efficiency
HPC streamlines business processes, allowing companies to get more work done in less time. Companies can respond to shifts in trends even faster because of high-performance computing’s swift processing time.
Wrap Up
High-performance computing is the way of the future. As HPC continues to develop to be more accessible to users worldwide, more and more companies are investing and setting themselves up for success. The problem-solving possibilities of high-performance computing systems are endless. Time is money, so maybe you’ll consider investing in this time-saving modern marvel.
