IBM unveils 64-way NUMA server; Promises Linux support

I just found this article at Info World which talks about IBM releasing a 64-way NUMA-Q server. The interesting part is that IBM promise to release a version of Linux optimized for NUMA servers. What do you think about it?

Comments

It's not that difficult..

[Blue Lang]

"it" being porting linux to a NUMA-Q.

(NUMA is a method of sharing CPU and RAM access across mutliple boxen)

NUMA-Q's are x86 boxen. They have some really, really, really cool features. I do wonder if IBM plans to write drivers for the FibreChannel SCSI adaptors and etc that come standard with most NUMAs.

OTOH, there is noooo reason not to use dynix on a NUMA. It's included with the (MASSIVE) cost of the box, it's based on BSD, it's a nice OS with tons of kick-ass features, and it's symbiotically enmeshed into these servers.

Hey, I wonder if IBM is actually gonna write a NUMA layer for linux? I mean, if they don't then all you end up with a buncha 4-way rack mounted linux boxes.. for $365,000 apiece.

One other thing, Sequent (now IBM) has the absolute best support I have ever seen. I have sent email to their web site about completely esoteric crap and had them call me back and get a dialogue open with the developer of whatever I was having trouble with. If you've got the cash and don't wanna deal with Solaris, DYNIX is the way to go.

--
blue, who is wearing his Sequent hat today.