[Virtual-sim] Apache Engine and Multicore Processors

[Nathan Kegel]

I am running the VE on multi-core and it is enabled in some applications
(Radiance for sure, and I believe MicroFlo as well).
 
I'm running the HP Z400 series with a quad-core and Windows 7 64-bit.
CFD calculations run in half the time as they did on my old (2 years
old) HP with Windows XP.  Radiance calcs are noticeable reduced as well.
 
Not sure if ApacheSIM benefits from multi-cores yet, but I know that
calculation time was reduced as well.  Plus it seems with the additional
RAM (8GB vs. 2GB) the VE is just more stable.
 
Nathan Kegel LEED AP

HGA   Architects and Engineers 
Direct 612.758.4335 


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________________________________

From: virtual-sim-bounces at lists.onebuilding.org
[mailto:virtual-sim-bounces at lists.onebuilding.org] On Behalf Of Simon
Chilvers
Sent: Thursday, August 05, 2010 9:58 AM
To: virtual-sim at lists.onebuilding.org
Subject: [Virtual-sim] Apache Engine and Multicore Processors



Looking at purchasing a standalone PC to sit separate from our work
network and run our Simulations on as quickly and efficiently as
possible.

 

Due to ApacheSim currently not taking advantage of multithreading or
multi-core processors, what would be the most effective hardware setup?

 

IES seem to think that 32bit and 64bit machines in regards to the VE
suite operate comparably, with the only advantage being the ability to
have more than 2 GB of RAM on a 64bit system, which I can only think is
an advantage when running Microflo simulations (something that we do not
do here as we do not have a license.

 

Therefore I assume I need to look at a processor with the biggest core
size.

 

Any pointers?

 

Simon

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