Service category: High Performance Computing

The bwUniCluster 2.0 is part of the implementation concept of the universities of Baden-Württemberg for high-performance computing (bwHPC) and serves to provide the state universities with basic high-performance computing capacity for science and teaching.

Together with the other universities in the state, kiz is involved in providing the bwUniCluster and user support for this system.

The bwUniCluster is located at the KIT in Karlsruhe. KIT is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the cluster hardware and system-related components.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Performance features

Operation

• Provision of computer and storage resources (home directories, workspaces) with configuration of fairshare shares and quota
• Monitoring of running applications to identify and eliminate inefficiencies caused by sub-optimal utilisation concepts
• Ensuring user authentication via the nationwide identity management system (bwIDM)
• Provision of technical documentation on the use of the cluster system on the kiz website and in the state-wide bwHPC wiki

Support

• Advising and supporting users in the utilisation of the bwUniCluster
• Organisation and implementation of HPC training courses

Innovation

• Expansion and adaptation of the operating concept to changing requirements
• Monitoring and evaluating new technological developments to update and procure future computer systems

User groups

The computer system can be used by all scientists employed at institutions of the state of Baden-Württemberg as well as students of these institutions in the context of research and teaching.

Restrictions apply to persons with foreign nationality if they come from certain countries of origin. The provisions of the Foreign Trade and Payments Act (AWG) and the Foreign Trade and Payments Ordinance (AWV) apply.

Service hours

24 x 7 x 365 (excluding maintenance times)

Scheduled or plannable maintenance is usually announced to users by e-mail one to two months in advance.

Application modalities

Access to the bwUniCluster is made possible by the state-wide identity management system bwIDM. Access is via an authentication and authorisation procedure based on Shibboleth. Registration is required for access to the bwUniCluster. Registration is web-based.

Fee / charge

The kiz contributes to the operating costs of the bwUniCluster. The costs are not allocated to individual users or institutes.