Local area networks as supercomputers

Using several PCʹs nodes concurrently on a local area network we have calculated and plotted the Mandelbrot set and its frontier behavior, and begun experiments with the resolution of linear systems of equations. For the Mandelbrot set graphics, a scheme was developed which obtains from each PC a contribution proportional to its computing power as observed when it is working alone. Preliminary results for the equation solver indicate a 20% reduction in computing time using two machines instead of one.