How to Build a PC Cluster

A PC cluster is a group of computers linked together to operate as a single unit. Clusters are designed for high-level performance and complex computations. They have been used to replace the supercomputer both because they are significantly less expensive to assemble and maintain, and they are capable of similar performance. Clusters can be built in any office with the right equipment and careful planning. The most basic cluster contains only two computers. As more computers are added, the networking becomes more complex.

• 1

  Bring together as many computers as you intend to link to your network to create the cluster. The computers should all be equipped with the same hardware, software and operating system. Set the computers up so that the settings on all the computers are the same.

• 2

  Organize the computers on a cluster rack. These racks are custom-designed according to the number of computers you will use to build your cluster. They are used to store and organize the PCUs in the cluster and minimize the amount of space the cluster takes up.

• 3

  Set up the cluster's network. All the computers should be networked through a flat switch with basic Ethernet cables.

• 4

  Set up a clustering service account on the Local Administrator group on each of the computers in the cluster.

• 5

  Enable the Windows Cryptographic Service Provider on each of the computers in the network.

• 6

  Install Windows 2003 clustering on each of the computers in the cluster.

• 7

  Open the cluster administrator. Here, the computers in the network will be called nodes. Select "Create new cluster" from the drop-down window and select "OK." This will bring up a new cluster wizard.

• 8

  Follow the directions in the installation wizard to finish setting up the cluster. The prompts will vary, depending on your responses and the type of cluster you are setting up.