Title: Parallel discrete event simulation on desktop grid computing infrastructures

Authors: Alfred Park, Richard M. Fujimoto

Addresses: Computational Science and Engineering Division, College of Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology, 266 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0765, USA. ' Computational Science and Engineering Division, College of Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology, 266 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0765, USA

Abstract: In contrast to traditional Parallel Discrete Event Simulation (PDES) systems using dedicated machines, an alternative master/worker approach for high throughput execution on shared computing platforms is proposed. Master/worker systems offer potential advantages over traditional PDES systems such as better support for heterogeneous machines, client-driven load balancing, fault tolerance, and execution on non-dedicated machines. We examine feasibility of executing PDES codes on master/worker systems. We characterise application properties that are important for efficient execution and define suitable performance metrics. The Aurora Parallel and Distributed Simulation System utilising the master/worker approach is described along with performance measurements in executing conservative PDES codes.

Keywords: PDES; parallel discrete event simulation; desktop grids; master-worker systems; conservative synchronisation; public resource computing; metacomputing; distributed simulation; parallel simulation; grid computing.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSPM.2009.028628

International Journal of Simulation and Process Modelling, 2009 Vol.5 No.2, pp.157 - 171

Received: 07 May 2008
Accepted: 13 Oct 2008
Published online: 21 Sep 2009 *

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