Looking For Clustered Computing Expertise

[jyl]

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?

[id10t]

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.

[cstreit]

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