Study Guide

Objective

Supercomputers are immensely powerful computers that help in solving some of the world’s biggest problems. They are capable of advanced modeling and computing that has only been possible for some years, and although they share common components with ordinary laptops, their computing power is something entirely different.

But how powerful is a supercomputer? How are they built and why do we need them? What are their main advantages and possibilities? In this course we’ll examine these questions and many more. By the end of the course, you will have the theoretical knowledge needed to explain the basic principles of a supercomputer. We’ll also take a look at some real-life examples and practical use cases of these amazing devices.

Content

Introduction to HPC
What is a supercomputer?
Running and using a supercomputer
Parallel computing concepts
Mote technical aspects of parallel computing
HPC programming (optional)

Qualifications

No prerequisites.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

To pass the course short exams must be passed and every knowledge check question must be answered correctly.

Further information

Level: Basic, no prerequisites
Time to complete: Approximately 15-30 hours (1 ECTS credit)
Structure: Six thematic chapters (chapter 6 is optional)
Evaluation: Short exam at the end of chapters 1-5
Grading: Pass/Fail