11.3 Example PSE Cluster Configurations

PSE clusters can be configured in a variety of ways:

A PSE cluster can be configured from an existing base of one or more Alpha systems using only existing components.
A PSE cluster can use an existing base and augment it with additional components as required, or start from scratch, using no existing components.

Good performance can be obtained on PSE clusters made up of almost any combination of Alpha systems with high-speed interconnects. This section shows four example PSE cluster configurations:

A PSE cluster consisting of a single SMP system
A PSE cluster made up of workstations and SMPs connected by a high-speed network switch
A PSE cluster made up of workstations and SMPs connected by Memory Channel
A PSE cluster with overlapping Memory Channel and network switch interconnects

11.3.1 Single SMP as a PSE Cluster

Figure 11-2 shows a single Alpha SMP system. With PSE installed, a single SMP system is an efficient, fully-functioning PSE cluster.

Figure 11-2 Single-Host PSE Cluster

11.3.2 PSE Cluster with a Switched Network Interconnect

Figure 11-3 shows a PSE cluster made up of various Alpha systems, both workstations and SMPs, connected by a high-speed switched network.

Figure 11-3 PSE Cluster with a Switched Network Interconnect

11.3.3 PSE Cluster with a Memory Channel Interconnect

Figure 11-4 shows a PSE cluster made up of various Alpha systems, both workstations and SMPs, connected by Memory Channel.

Figure 11-4 PSE Cluster with a Memory Channel Interconnect

11.3.4 PSE Cluster with Multiple Interconnects

Figure 11-5 shows a PSE cluster made up of various Alpha systems, both workstations and SMPs, connected by a combination of a high-speed switched network and Memory Channel. PSE automatically routes communications through the fastest available interconnect between any two given members.