Patmos builds Tflop/s Janus supercomputer machine

What Patmos has done is extend the evolution of the supercomputer. Instead of lining up a series of PCs, Patmos has developed a single computing entity in which all memory nodes are completely connected to each other, and are independent.

The Patmos supercomputer is comprised of individual computing elements (nBoxen) that are capable of asynchronous and synchronous (Janus) operations. Each individual node has a dedicated link to a switch fabric that is connected to multiple disk storage arrays (nMime).

Data storage can be on single or multiple mirrored copies and either on itself or connected supercomputers at disparate physical locations. What the Patmos topology does is create a server system that cannot go down. Each node not only has its own independent memory and processing system functionality, but is also mirrored and connected to all other nodes, creating a system where the data are also fully shared. If there is a breakdown in one or more nodes, the remaining nodes supply the information without entailing a breakdown in data flow or integrity. The deficient node can be replaced while the system is in operation, without any memory loss.

Patmos indicates that the key is its topology, which it calls the Janus effect. This encompasses distributed processing using a neurological model. In older models, scalability has always been a problem. By using a self-organizing, arborized and reticulated network, Patmos states that they have created a self-similar pattern that is infinitely expandable. It also addresses the complex barrier challenge with a higher-level language than the traditional C or C++, called LISP.

According to a research bulletin put out by the company, its sixteen-node connectionist supercomputer accomplishes massive integration and data distribution through hologramic fractalized mirroring. With the coming of the 64-bit AMD processor, the company feels Janus will reach beyond any machine heretofore even imagined. Currently, it is powered by AMD 32-bit processors, operating at 1.536 teraflops.