Modeling a web service-based decentralized parallel programming environment

Abstract

Heterogeneous computer clusters which deploy COTS PCs and/or high performance server computers are economic parallel systems. However, development and execution software should be installed on each cluster host along with the operating system. Cluster members can no longer be used as standalone PCs without interrupting cluster work. On the other hand, usability of hosts in both individual and cluster-related tasks at the same time is strongly desired. In this paper, we present a web service-based parallel heterogeneous model in which participation is conditional and dynamic. Grid functionality is provided by using service oriented software architecture. Since service architecture is widely supported by operating systems, the hosts can easily be adapted to the parallel environment. Completion of all jobs is guaranteed theoretically and shown practically on the laboratory implementation as long as at least one host is operational in the system. © 2009 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.