The 4th High-Performance Computing Meeting 2024 held on November 5-6 at the University of Beira Interior in Covilhã, has established itself as a key gathering for users, technicians, and partners of the high-performance computing ecosystem in Portugal. Organized by the National High-Performance Computing Network (RNCA) and FCCN the digital services unit of the Foundation for Science and Technology FCT), the event focused on fostering new collaboration opportunities and advancing digitalization with a significant impact on science and industry. The event opened with workshops offering a hands-on perspective on topics such as submitting European applications and demonstrating the Deucalion supercomputer, highlighting practical HPC applications within the European context. The first day featured addresses by institutional leaders, including representatives from the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), who outlined developments and future ambitions in computing in Portugal.
Panels on European HPC infrastructure resources, such as MareNostrum 5 and EuroHPC offerings, emphasized European integration in high-performance computing. The second day delivered technical and practical presentations, focusing on subjects like software transfer from X86 to ARM architectures and the use of containers for AI applications. Participants also explored impactful projects, such as DeepNeuronic, which applies machine learning for security camera systems, and initiatives like the Virtual HPCvLab, broadening their knowledge of new HPC applications.
The event also featured interactions with other competence centers as part of the EuroCC2 project, demonstrating the power of international collaboration to accelerate progress and innovation in high-performance computing. NCC Slovakia’s participation affirmed its commitment to knowledge sharing, exchanging best practices, and supporting projects that utilize high-performance computing. During the meeting, we also explored opportunities for collaboration in training and educational activities, further strengthening our international ties and contributing to the development of HPC competencies.