Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around finding useful and extensive tutorials or textbooks for learning MPI (Message Passing Interface) in Fortran. Participants share resources and insights related to MPI, particularly in the context of parallel computing and its applications.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related
Main Points Raised
- One participant seeks recommendations for extensive MPI tutorials or textbooks specifically for Fortran.
- Another participant suggests a link to a tutorial hosted by LLNL, indicating it may be useful.
- A different participant finds the suggested tutorial helpful but notes it lacks many examples, expressing a need for deeper understanding due to a large N-Body simulation project.
- There is a mention of additional resources linked at the bottom of a Wikipedia entry, including two PDF documents of varying lengths.
- One participant emphasizes that being well-versed in parallel computing is crucial, suggesting that while using MPI may be straightforward for someone fluent in Fortran, the challenge lies in parallelizing algorithms.
- A recommendation is made for a book that, while primarily in C, includes Fortran 77 code, suggesting it could be beneficial.
- Another book by Bisseling is mentioned, which focuses on the BSP model for parallel programming and includes MPI primitives in its appendix, potentially making it accessible for those with limited programming experience.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on a single best resource, as multiple suggestions are made, and some express differing views on the adequacy of the resources provided.
Contextual Notes
Some participants express uncertainty about the completeness of the resources mentioned, particularly regarding the number of examples and depth of coverage in the tutorials and textbooks.
Who May Find This Useful
Individuals interested in learning MPI in Fortran, particularly those involved in parallel computing or working on simulations that require extensive computational resources.