The High Performance Computing (HPC) service requirements for the research and innovation community in Ireland are driven by the increasing complexity and scale of scientific and engineering simulations, data analysis, and modeling tasks. To meet these demands, HPC services must provide:
1. High-Performance Computing Infrastructure:
- Powerful Processors: HPC systems require high-performance processors, such as CPUs and GPUs, capable of handling complex calculations and simulations efficiently.
- Large-Scale Storage: Adequate storage capacity is essential for storing and managing massive datasets generated by research activities.
- High-Speed Networking: A robust network infrastructure is crucial for enabling efficient communication between processors and storage devices.
2. User-Friendly Interface and Tools:
- Intuitive Interface: HPC services should provide an easy-to-use interface that allows researchers to access and utilize computing resources effectively.
- Comprehensive Software Suite: A wide range of software tools, including programming languages, libraries, and applications, should be available to support various research domains.
3. Scalability and Flexibility:
- Scalable Resources: HPC services must be able to scale resources up or down to meet the fluctuating demands of different research projects.
- Flexible Deployment Options: Researchers should have the option to deploy HPC resources on-premises, in the cloud, or in a hybrid environment.
4. Robust Support and Maintenance:
- Technical Expertise: HPC providers should offer expert technical support to assist researchers in utilizing the resources effectively.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance and updates are essential to ensure the optimal performance and security of HPC systems.
5. Data Security and Privacy:
- Data Protection: HPC services must implement robust security measures to protect sensitive research data from unauthorized access.
- Compliance: Adherence to relevant data privacy regulations, such as GDPR, is crucial.
6. Collaboration and Sharing:
- Collaborative Tools: HPC services should support collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers.
- Data Sharing Platforms: Secure and efficient platforms for sharing data and research results are essential.
7. Accessibility and Affordability:
- Accessibility: HPC services should be accessible to researchers from various institutions and backgrounds.
- Cost-Effective: Pricing models should be flexible and affordable to accommodate different research budgets.
By meeting these requirements, HPC services can empower the research and innovation community in Ireland to tackle complex challenges, drive scientific discovery, and foster economic growth.
According to www.gov.ie/:
Since 2005 the Irish Centre for High-End Computing (ICHEC) has made high-performance computing (HPC) resources available to all researchers based in Irish third-level institutions. Their services are also available to researchers in industry and the public sector.
ICHEC’s most recent high-performance computer, Kay, reached its effective end of life in November 2023. In anticipation of this and in order to maintain the existing level of HPC provision to the academic and enterprise community, an interim service was deployed to maintain the provision of a public HPC service, pending a strategic review of HPC provision in Ireland.
Since then, an interim service has been in operation using an EU computer, MeluXina which is part of the EU’s network of supercomputers until a long-term sustainable model of HPC provision to the research and innovation community in Ireland can be determined.
A report is expected from the expert panel at the end of 2024.
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