Looking For Clustered Computing Expertise
 

I'm trying to understand some things about a current trend in computing - clustered or "scale-out" architecture using large numbers of 1-2 way x86 servers, typically running Linux.

Does anyone have expertise in this area? I'd love a chance to ask my question by PM.

In case this was too vague, I'm basically trying to understand the limitations of this scale-out strategy for enterprise computing (i.e. corporate, as distinguished from academic). What sort of computing tasks is it best suited for - web serving vs application serving vs database serving? How much overhead and complexity is added by the need to manage the cluster, e.g. cabling, load-balancing. Does the practicality of scaling out diminish at some point, e.g. at 100 servers, 1,000 servers, 10,000 servers?

There are lots of ways to do clustering for different tasks.. balancing a load across multiple database/webservers, or doing distributed compiling/computing/rendering. Drop me an email and I'll try to answer questions or give you some useful links... steve dot jensen at sfcc dot edu.

Pretty much up my alley also. PM me if you get a chance, I'll see what I can help with...