How do I Make Decisions about Computing and Computing Power?

Traditionally, researchers have purchased their own hardware (e.g. desktops, laptops, servers) to conduct research. Now, as a CSU faculty member, you may secure access to remote computing resources. ITS has created a table that compares and contrasts resource types across a range of decision criteria. ITS support staff are happy to meet with faculty to assess each type of resource and help you determine what technology will best support your research dreams.

Some questions to consider

  • Software Licensing: do you need to use licensed software?
  • Runtime: does this need to run often 24x7, or intermittently?
  • Resources: how much compute/memory/disk is needed?
  • Application Architecture: can the programs you are running be containerized? Do you know how to do it?

Table Comparing Computing Options by Decision Making Criteria

Computing Option*Startup CostsRunning CostsDelivery TimeModificationRefresh CostsSoftwareResearcher Learning Curve
Physical Hardware (Desktop/Laptop/Server)HighFREE during warranty periodHighDifficultHighOpen Source/
Licensed
Medium
Cloud Based Compute (charges based on use time)MediumMediumMediumEasyMediumOpen Source/
Licensed
Medium
Cloud Based Compute (prepaid unlimited run time in contract period)LowLowLowDifficultN/AOpen Source/
Licensed
Medium
National Research Platform (NRP) (nautilus, jupyter)FREEFREELowEasyN/AOpen SourceHigh
Supercomputer on other campuses (e.g., OSGSanJose /IBM, San Diego)LowLowLowModerateN/AOpen Source/
Licensed
High

* Storage expansion may increase costs involved

National Research Platform (NRP) is a nationwide Kubernetes cluster with compute, storage and networking (containerized) resources used for research. The primary interface is via Nautilus portal that orchestrates containers.

Open Science Grid (OSG) is a high throughput computing (HTC) service available for researchers.

San Diego Supercomputer Center provides access to High Performance Computing (HPC) resources via ACCESS and Expanse.

NSF’s ACCESS (Advanced Cyberinfrastructure Coordination Ecosystem: Services & Support) provides advanced computing, visualization and data resources for researchers.

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