Training

TACC offers various training classes in high performance computing (HPC), scientific visualization (SciVis), distributed and grid computing (DGC), and computational cluster management. TACC training classes teach the programming principles and techniques in HPC and SciVis as well as how to use TACC's high-end systems most effectively. A cluster workshop is also taught, providing students with an opportunity to build a cluster from scratch. Therefore, much of the content in TACC training classes is useful for users using TACC resources as well as their own local systems (e.g. clusters and graphics workstations/PCs).

TACC training classes are free to the UT Austin and UT System research communities, participants in the NSF funded TeraGrid project, members of the TACC International Partnership in Advanced Computing (IPAC) program, individuals and groups that engage in collaborative research and development activities with TACC, and other public sector organizations. Most levels of the TACC industrial affiliates program, Science and Technology Affiliates for Research (STAR), provide access to all TACC training activities. TACC training classes are also available for a fee to interested persons who are part of the private sector. Please contact info(at)tacc.utexas(dot)edu for more information about private sector training.

* Class Rescheduled from December 3

Please check back for updated course offerings.

Computational Biology

Introduction to High Performance Computing for Life Scientists
This one-day workshop is intended to introduce life scientists to high performance computing at TACC. Attendees will learn how to utilize the vast array of resources that TACC offers for Computational Biology. Topics to be covered include computing, storage and visualization systems, life science software, basic Unix and compiling methods. A hands-on lab session will provide an opportunity to work with TACC systems directly. The class is intended for high performance computing "novices" and advanced computing skills are NOT required. A working knowledge of Unix is helpful but not necessary.

High Performance Computing

C Programming Basics for HPC
This half-day lecture is the first in a new series of short lectures presented by TACC for foundational skills. Attendees will be introduced to the basic C programming for High Performance Computing environments such as the Lonestar production system.

Data Analysis on Ranger
In this two day class, users will learn about Data Analysis from several angles, including remote visualization on Ranger, accessing and sharing large data sets using Science Gateways, and practical concerns including data movement, interoperability, and data formats. Several case studies will highlight large data analysis in HPC research.

Fortran90/95 Programming for High-Performance Computing
Fortran programming skills are essential for researchers in areas of High Performance Computing. These skills can be directly applied to resources at the Texas Advanced Computing Center and in any Unix environment. The class is intended for the intermediate user wishing to gain more experience in Fortran90/95 programming. Basic knowledge of Fortran or another mid/high-level programming language is a prerequisite.

Introduction to Parallel Computing on Ranger
Parallel Computing on Ranger covers the architecture, user environment and proper use of Ranger, the Sun Constellation Linux Cluster. This class should be of particular interest to computational scientists interested in developing and porting codes for this system.

Introduction to Parallel Computing on Ranger and Lonestar
Parallel Computing on Ranger and Lonestar covers the architecture, user environment and proper use of Ranger, the Sun Constellation Linux Cluster and Lonestar, the Dell Linux Cluster. This class should be of particular interest to computational scientists interested in developing and porting codes for this system.

Linux/Unix Basics for HPC
This foundational class provides beginner and intermediate users with basic Linux/Unix command line environment experience. The lecture will emphasize common strategies used for interacting with clusters and HPC resources. A student guide with suggested supplemental reading and a Linux/Unix command line environment practice lab, as well as a Command Reference Guide (with interactive system and batch commands) are included. No prerequisite.

Parallel Optimization and Visualization on Ranger and Spur
In this two-day training session Ranger users will be exposed to 1) core optimization and the instrumentation and profiling steps required to undertake detailed performance analysis of MPI applications running on Ranger, and 2) the fundamentals of remote visualization on Ranger and Spur.

Profiling and Debugging Serial and Parallel Programs
The course covers profiling and debugging technologies available at TACC for performance optimization and debugging of serial and parallel codes. The course contains instructions for beginners and advanced users, along with a lab with demos and examples.

Scientific Visualization

ACES Vislab New User Training
The ACES Visualization Laboratory ("Vislab"), located in ACES 2.404a, has been refurbished and upgraded, and is now open to all UT faculty, students, and staff, as well as UT System and TeraGrid users. In order to activate your account on systems in the Vislab, a training session is required. Previous Vislab users (before renovation) are also required to attend the training as we have a completely different set of equipment. All Vislab training is held in the lab itself.

Data Analysis on Ranger
In this two day class, users will learn about Data Analysis from several angles, including remote visualization on Ranger, accessing and sharing large data sets using Science Gateways, and practical concerns including data movement, interoperability, and data formats. Several case studies will highlight large data analysis in HPC research.

Hands-On Introduction to Scientific Visualization
In this one-day class, users will learn about the scientific visualization and data analysis resources available at TACC, including remote visualization on Ranger and Spur, and large-scale visualization on Stallion and Bronco. A significant portion of the class will involve hands-on interaction with the systems, and users are encouraged to bring data for use in the class (sample data will be provided as well).

Introduction to Computer Graphics and Scientific Visualization
In this one-and-half-day training session, we will teach the attendees fundamental concepts in scientific visualization and computer graphics, and introduce them to various visualization software packages that TACC supports.

Parallel Optimization and Visualization on Ranger and Spur
In this two-day training session Ranger users will be exposed to 1) core optimization and the instrumentation and profiling steps required to undertake detailed performance analysis of MPI applications running on Ranger, and 2) the fundamentals of remote visualization on Ranger and Spur.

To view and download available materials for recent and upcoming courses, please visit Course Materials.

The Institute provides researchers with an intensive introduction to using TACC’s computing resources. Senior TACC staff deliver presentations and lead interactive lab sessions focused on using TACC’s advanced computing resources and technologies. Information for next summer's workshop will be added to the Summer Supercomputing Institute page as details are finialized. Read about last summer's activities to learn what kind of training and information has been provided in the past. [Details]