Microsoft releases first high performance computing server

Microsoft has announced the release of Windows Compute Cluster Server 2003, its first high-performance computing technology offering.

The new product will allow users who need to carry out complex and large-scale computations to run parallel, high-performance computing (HPC) applications.

It is aimed at users in fields such as engineering, science and research and offers integration with existing Windows infrastructures, allowing users to run a variety of compatible HPC applications.

Early adopters have used the product for oil and gas reservoir simulation and seismic processing, simulations of enzyme catalysis and vehicle design, Microsoft said.

Research from industry analyst IDC revealed that the high-performance and technical computing market grew by about 24% last year, generating $9.2bn revenues – the second consecutive year of 20%-plus growth in this market.

But a survey of 100 IT leaders published last month by software firm Morse found that business executives considered high-performance computing to be complex, expensive and insecure.

Windows Compute Cluster Server 2003 will be generally available in August.