Preparatory access is for the limited allocation of computer time for code scalability and optimisation (no standard production work). Besides requesting computer time, applicants may also request support from software experts for code optimisation. The preparatory access call is a rolling call. Applications can be submitted all year round and there are no closing dates. Proposals are assessed technically and allocation is granted immediately following a positive technical assessment. A final, technical report is required.
There are 2 types of preparatory access:
- Code scalability testing to obtain scalability plots which can be used as supporting information when applying to future project calls. This route is important to ensure the scalability of the codes is tested within the set of parameters to be used for project calls. Assessment of applications is undertaken using a light-weight procedure with evaluations of the applications received at least every 2 months. The maximum allocation for type A is of the order of 50,000 to 100,000 core hours. The maximum allocation time is 6 months which includes submission of the final report.
- Code development and optimisation by the applicant using their own resources (i.e. without support). Applicants will need to describe the planning for development together with some information on the resources that are available to execute the project. Applications will be assessed at least every 2 months. The maximum allocation for type B is of the order of 5,000 to 10,000 core hours. The maximum allocation time is 6 months which includes submission of the final report.
Proposals for Preparatory Access only undergo technical assessment. If this assessment is positive, applicants will be promptly informed that their application has been successful and will be awarded time on the machine.
There are time limits for all types of proposals for preparatory access. Applicants should refer to the description of the types of proposals for these limits for each HPC machine.
After signing the user agreement, applicants will receive a username and instructions in order to access the awarded computer resources. If expert support has been requested, applicants will be also informed of this and will be contacted by the assigned expert(s).
