Advanced Computing Research Centre

BlueCrystal Phase 1 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Getting Started

• What type of job can be run on the system?

• How do I apply to use the system?

• How is use of the system funded?

Using the System

• How do I get started?

• How do I submit a job?

• How quickly will my job be run?

• Will my data be backed up?

• Can I work on BlueCrystal from home?

• For how long is my account valid?

Troubleshooting

• How can I get some advice?

What type of job can be run on the system?

Priority will be given to parallel jobs. If you have a job which requires special facilities, this should be explained on the Application Form. Further details are available in the User Guide.

How do I apply to use the system?

If you wish to use the system for the first time, or you are an existing user who wishes to submit a job relating to a new project, you must complete the Application Form. Once this form has been submitted, your application will be reviewed by the HPC Executive and you will be informed of the decision by email. Providing your application has been successful, you will also receive details of your account.

How is use of the system funded?

The machine currently operates under a fair share policy and no charge is made for general access. However if you have a large request for resources, please contact us to discuss possible charging models.

How do I get started?

The Quick Start Guide gives you a brief guide to getting stated and compiling a simple "Hello World" program.

How do I submit a job?

Details are given in the User Guide.

How quickly will my job be run?

BlueCrystal uses a queueing system, torque, using the Maui scheduler and jobs will be run on the nodes as soon as resources are available. Full details are given in the User Guide.

Will my data be backed up?

We do not guarantee that data stored on the system will be backed up and it is therefore your responsibility to ensure that you have adequate back up.

For how long is my account valid?

Accounts are set up for a maximum of one year with an annual renewal date of 1 March. We will send you a reminder one month before expiry.

Can I work on BlueCrystal from home?

BlueCrystal access is limited to UoB sites (systems with UoB IP addresses). If you want to work on it from home, you can access it using the UoB VPN setup. You should speak to your zonal IT team about using the UoB VPN, as the HPC system administrators cannot advise you about this. Further information about the VPN is available at http://www.bristol.ac.uk/is/computing/advice/homeusers/uobvpn/

You can also access seis.bris.ac.uk and from there log in to BlueCrystal.

How can I get some advice?

For help with any problems or for general advice, please initially email hpc-help@bristol.ac.uk. One of our System Administrators will respond and provide help with your query.