The computing resources provided by the CLAIX system are valuable and limited. To ensure optimal utilization, resources are primarily granted through computing time projects.

How are computing resources measured?

In the HPC world, the consumption of computing resources is measured in core hours (core-h). As the name suggests, one core-h typically represents the usage of one CPU core for one hour.

Every time a job is submitted to Slurm the used computing time is accounted for. The usage of the login-nodes or the devel partition is not tracked.

You can find more details about computing time account on the next page.

What are computing time projects?

Computing time projects are a way to distribute computing resources. They ensure that resources are not overbooked and that resource needs are justified.

Although small-scale tests can be performed without computing time project (see below) - any substantial work will require you to apply for one. The most suitable project depends on several factors:

• Your affiliation: Are you a member of RWTH, a different German university or research facility, or from industry?
• The type resources you need: CPU or GPU?
• The amount of computing resources you need, i.e how many core-h.
• The purpose of the computing time: Is it for research or teaching?

Depending on the type of project you apply for, your proposal may undergo a technical and scientific review. Please review our Quick Reference (available online or as PDF) for an illustration of the application, approval and allocation process.

You can find more information on how to use computing projects on the next page.

What resources are available for testing?

All users are provided with a default monthly computing quota that can be used outside of computing time projects. The quotas are as follows:

• Students: 500 core-h
• Non-students (e.g. scientific employees): 2000 core-h

If you require computing time beyond these default quotas, you will need to apply for a computing time project.

As mentioned before, the login nodes and the devel partition can also be used for testing purposes without the need for a computing time project.