Advanced Computing Resources at ETSU

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Have questions about advanced computing resources, NSF ACCESS, or AWS? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) below for detailed answers and guidance to help you get started.

• What is Advanced Computing?

  Advanced computing, also known as high-performance computing or supercomputing, involves pooling the processing power of multiple computers to perform tasks that would take a single desktop computer a very long time. Many advanced computing projects can be supported using sub-cluster technologies like virtual desktops (AppStream, WorkSpaces, or LightSail for Research) or server instances such as AWS EC2.
• What is NSF ACCESS?

  NSF ACCESS (Advanced Cyberinfrastructure Coordination Ecosystem: Services & Support) is a program funded by the National Science Foundation that provides free access to cutting-edge supercomputing systems and resources across the U.S. It enables researchers and educators to conduct high-performance computing tasks such as large-scale data analysis, simulations, and more.

  Key Features of NSF ACCESS:

  • 
    Free Computing Resources: Access to supercomputing power at no cost.
  • Support for Researchers: Open to faculty, staff, graduate students, and educators.
  • Expert Guidance: Technical support and training resources to assist users.
  • Application Requirement: Users must apply for computing credit to access resources.

  Learn more by visiting the NSF ACCESS website.

• What is AWS EC2?

  Amazon Web Services (AWS) Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) is a cloud computing service that provides scalable, secure, and cost-effective virtual servers for running advanced computing tasks. EC2 is widely used for research projects requiring intensive data processing, machine learning, and simulations.

  Why Use AWS EC2?

  • 
    Scalability: Easily adjust computing power to meet project demands.
  • Advanced Tools: Access state-of-the-art cloud services like AI tools and data storage.
  • Collaboration: Securely share resources and data across research teams.
  • Cost Assistance: ETSU offers help estimating EC2 costs for grant applications and account setup.

  For guidance on accessing AWS EC2 or computing cost estimations, contact:

  • Vincent Thompson: 423-439-4492
  • ITS HelpDesk: 423-439-4648
• Should You Consider Advanced Computing?

  Advanced computing allows you to compute faster and more efficiently. If your computer frequently slows down or crashes while running large computations, advanced computing can provide the solution. It’s ideal for tasks such as:

  • Data mining and analysis
  • Working with large datasets
  • Complex video or animation rendering
  • Simulations, multi-step analyses, and iterative algorithms
  • Genetic sequencing and 3D structural/image analysis
  • Language processing and more
• What Does the Term "Big Data" Mean?

  "Big data" refers to datasets so large that they contain undiscovered patterns with valuable insights about the data’s population. These datasets aren't limited to numerical data—they may also include literary collections, website categories, or multimedia libraries. The possibilities are endless when exploring big data.

• Is Data Analysis Slowing Your Computer?

  You might be working with big data without realizing it! If your computer slows down significantly or becomes unable to perform other tasks during analysis, advanced computing could help. Don’t let slow or crashed computations hinder your research—consider alternate solutions to handle large datasets more efficiently.

• Are Our Advanced Computing Resources Certified for HIPAA Data?

  Yes, ETSU has a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) with AWS, allowing the use of HIPAA-compliant datasets on AWS EC2 compute instances, provided appropriate permissions and safeguards are in place. When possible, using de-identified data is always preferred to ensure compliance and protect privacy.

• What Statistical Tools Can Be Used with Advanced Computing?

  ETSU integrates advanced computing with tools like RStudio and SAS, supported by various AWS services. NSF ACCESS and DOE INCITE programs provide additional statistical packages available at national supercomputing centers. Note that applying for compute credits through these programs is required to access these resources.

• Is There Support for the Humanities and Text/Web Mining?

  Yes! Advanced computing is being used in the humanities for text and web mining, exploring artistic works, cultures, languages, and social networks. Creative methods may be needed to compile, compare, and analyze available data. ETSU projects have utilized AWS EC2 server instances for language processing, while qualitative data analysis (QDA) software like Atlas.ti (with 20 licenses available) can be run on any computer, including virtual AppStream environments on AWS. Some QDA tasks, such as sentiment analysis, can also be performed in RStudio.