How can I create a computer cluster?

Question

I have about 4 older computers lying around my house, being mostly unproductive. I would like to breathe new life into them by creating a computer cluster out of it. I have a friend who had done it, and managed some respectable results out of it, and I would like to do the same. They are not all the same processor power, and certainly to the same extent not the same RAM. If anyone could point me in the right direction of putting together a cluster, that would be great. I know how to use basic things, Linux doesn't scare me, I just need some good software and a how-to and what computer clusters of my interest can/can't do. I would really appreciate it, I dreadfully hate seeing good computers rot into nothing.

Answer 1

I commend you for your efforts, and your concern for the "oldies", and if you can find out how to cluster them that would be great, except that remember each one of those has a minimum 250 watt power supply, maybe more, and you crank them all up you are going to be paying a pretty hefty power bill, just for the sake of saving some poor old computers some grief. If the place where you are going to power them comes with free juice, then great. otherwise, prepare your wallet. My $.02

Answer 2

it rather is achievable to have different computers function in a cluster to accomplish artwork mutually, yet no longer interior the variety you defined. The machines might choose to be linked, by way of a interior reach section community, which might enable them to communicate with one yet another. then you definately might wish middleware utility to get the machines to artwork on the comparable problems/initiatives. With the WINE API layer, Linux can run many residing house windows utility, even inspite of the undeniable fact that it does not constantly artwork properly, relying on which version of WINE you utilize.

Answer 3

sounds interesting.. shouldnt you ask your friend about it..