Building a multi-node Pi2 or Pi3 supercomputer requires configuring, initially, the first two nodes (master and first slave). The slave1 disk image (more on this later) can then be cloned for producing any number of remaining slave nodes, as you expand the processing capacity of the super stack. In the ensuing paragraphs, you will be presented with a list of parts. You will learn about the origin of the Pi microcomputer and its technical specs. Additionally, you will be instructed on how to configure the master Pi node, in preparation for transferring the requisite test codes from the main PC to the master node, and finally, you will configure the first slave node to create a two-node supercomputer.
In this chapter, you will learn about the following topics:
- The list of parts required for the Pi2 or Pi3 supercomputer
- The origin of the Pi microcomputer
- The critical specs of the Pi processor
- How to configure the master node
- How to transfer the requisite codes to the master node from the main PC
- How to configure the first slave node of the two-node Pi2 or Pi3 supercomputer
You may acquire all or part of your supplies from Amazon, Adafruit, or any other online hobby or electronic parts stores. However, the author built his supercomputer from parts acquired exclusively from Amazon.
The following is a list of things you will need to build your supercomputer:
- Eight Raspberry Pi2 or Pi3 model B computers -> 8 x $39.99 = $319.92.
- Addicore Raspberry Pi heatsink set of three aluminum heat sinks -> 8 x $4.95 = $39.60.
- Eight-pack, eight-color (3 feet long) Ethernet patch cables from cable matters -> 1 x $12.99 = $12.99.
- Extra Ethernet patch cable for connection to the main PC.
- Eight 16-GB SD cards from SanDisk or other, preloaded with NOOBS (optional, can download from website). Purchase a 10-pack and save -> 1 x $49.43 = $49.43.
- Four sets of stackable case (sidewinder) for Raspberry Pi2 model B from HDZ concepts -> 4 x $15.98 = $63.92.
- One Sabrent 60-watt (12-amp) 10-port family-sized desktop USB rapid charger -> 1 x $37.99 = $37.99.
- Eight Sabrent 22AWG premium 3ft micro USB cables; you might have to purchase a six-pack and a three-pack -> 1 x $9.99 = $9.99.
- One wireless Edimax EW-7811Un 150Mbps 11n Wi-Fi USB adapter -> 1 x $8.99 = $8.99.
- One HPE networking BTO JG536A#ABA 1910-8 managed switch -> 1 x $85.99 = $85.99.
- One extended Ethernet cable to connect to your router if it is not close to your work area. The author had to purchase a 50-ft-long cable to reach his workstation -> 1 x $9.49 = $9.49.
- One HI definition monitor with HDMI connector for connecting to the Raspberry Pi2 board, for example, Sunfounder 7'HD 1024*600 TFT LCD screen display -> 1 x $59.99 = $59.99.
- One C2G/cables to go 43036 4-inch cable ties - 100 pack (black) -> 1 x $3.07 = $3.07.
- One Amazon basics high-speed HDMI cable - 3 feet (latest standard) -> 1 x $4.99 = $4.99.
- One Rii Mini K12 keyboard, Fig. 42, or alternatively, one Anker CB310 full-size ergonomic wireless keyboard and mouse combo -> 1 x $39.99 = $39.99.