The Parallel Computing Toolbox and matching Distributed Computing Server augment the MathWorks’ Matlab 2008a with parallel computing support that will be a boon to number-crunching developers. New features include parallel for (parfor) definitions as well as distributed arrays (darray) that allow data to be distributed across many servers. Users also can transition from serial Matlab programs to parallel Matlab programs without significant changes. The system is integrated with the Optimization Toolbox, the Genetic Algorithm and Data Search Toolbox, and the MathWorks’ SystemTest. The parallel enhancements are built on a message passing interface (MPI) that is also accessible to developers. A batch mode is now available to permit optimum use of a distributed server environment. Additional tools are provided for cluster monitoring and management.
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