R & D in High Performance Computing Systems in India

Abstract

High Performance Computing Systems are required for solving highly complex computation intensive problems. The major architectures for building such systems have been Vector Processors, Parallel Processing Systems and Clusters. Grid Computing is emerging as the latest paradigm with the promise to transform computing into a utility with availability of services to the user on demand similar to the electrical power grid. Four Centres in India are actively carrying out R&D in High Performance Computing Systems. Comparative review of the Indian and International Scenario in this rapidly developing cutting edge technology indicates that the R&D activities in India need further impetus and product orientation.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

SS Prasad

SS Prasad an alumnus of St Xavier's, Ranchi University and IIT Kanpur started his career in 1967 with Ballistic Computations at Armament Research & Development Establishment, Pune. In 1977 he was invited by Union Public Service Commission where he developed and implemented Civil Services Examination Processing System making pioneering use of OMRs in the country. On completion of tenure he planned setting up of DRDO Computer Centres and their networking based on OSI Reference Model. Besides the operational management of the PRJME computers at Delhi he was also responsible for software development for simulation and Image Processing. In 1989 he was invited to head the only Cray Supercomputer Centre in India where he was responsible for upgradation of the Cray XMP to its full configuration, complete system integration to predict medium range weather forecasts and their dissemination using VSATs developed by CDOT besides initiating parallelization of the software on the Parallel Processing Systems under development in the country. On completion of tenure in 1993 he was responsible for environmental modeling for Range Safety, He joined DRDO HQ in 1997 as Director Information Systems and has held additional appointment of Director Training & Sponsored Research during 1998–2000 and Director RAC from May 2000 onwards.

KD Nayak

KD Nayak an alumnus of Vishveswaraih College of Engg, Bangalore University and IIT Bombay joined Defence Electronics Applications Lab (DEAL), Dehradun in 1984 after doing R&D in Microwave ICs and Phase Shifters at IIT Bombay. He made significant contributions towards development of MICs, Millimetre Wave Components and subsystems at DEAL during 1984–1999. During 1999 he joined Advanced Numerical Research and Analysis Group (ANURAG) of DRDO at Hyderabad which he is currently heading. He received IETE-IRSI(83) Award for 1997–98 for outstanding contribution in the field of Microwave Systems, and, NRDC Technology Day Invention Award on 11 May 2000.