Feedback from the Readers
Penguinistas of the World, Unite! And how to read a directory.
Tuesday, November 15th, 2005
Cluster Computing 101
I just read your March 2005 “Extreme Linux” column on building a low-cost
Linux cluster (
http://www.linux-mag.com/2005-03/extreme_01.html). What are you running on it? I’m interested in clustering, but not quite sure about what applications are out there.
Amit Uttamchandani, via email
Extreme Linux columnist Forrest Hoffman replies: The little, inexpensive cluster was built to show how cheaply one could begin working with cluster computing. I have done some parallel cluster analysis on the mini-cluster, but I use it primarily to try out new software and cluster toolkits. I always say there’s no reason to build a machine unless you have a need for it, because the need should dictate its design. —Forrest
Global Warming… to the Penguin
The State of Wisconsin currently has a bill in the works (see
http://www.wisdems.org/index.php?display= ReleaseDetails& id=584499) to require all electronic voting machines to produce a printed ballot receipt and run on open source code. Both provisions are safeguards that the new technology works as it should.
To me, it should be a simple matter for a voter to select his or her candidates, receive a printed receipt, verify that receipt is correct, and then be able to log on to www.wherethehellismyvote.gov to verify that the online system has captured the ballot correctly.
