A GPU cluster is a computer cluster in which each node is equipped with a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). By harnessing the computational power of modern GPUs via General-Purpose Computing on Graphics Processing Units (GPGPU), very fast calculations can be performed with a GPU cluster.
Heterogeneous
Hardware from both of the major IHV's can be used (ATi and nVidia). Even if different models of the same GPU are used (e.g. 8800GT mixed with 8800GTX) the gpu cluster is considered heterogeneous.
Homogeneous
Every single GPU is of the same hardware class, make, and model. (i.e. a homogeneous cluster comprising 100 8800GTs, all with the same amount of VRAM)Classifying a GPU cluster according to the above semantics largely directs software development on the cluster, as different GPUs have different capabilities that can be utilized.
The Tesla graphics processing unit (GPU) is nVidia's third brand of GPUs. It is based on high-end GPUs from the G80 (and on), as well as the Quadro lineup. Tesla is nVidia's first dedicated General Purpose GPU. The Tesla series takes its name from pioneering Serbian electrical engineer Nikola Tesla.
NVIDIA® Tesla™ 20-series GPU computing processors turn standard PCs and workstations into personal supercomputers. Based on the NVIDIA CUDA™ GPU architecture codenamed "Fermi", Tesla 20-series GPUs feature more than 500 gigaflops of double precision performance, 1 teraflop of single precision performance, ECC memory error protection, and L1 and L2 caches. Tesla 20-series GPGPU processors for workstations deliver cluster level performance right at your desk.
Geforce is the line of GPUs (graphics processors) traditional mass market. Cards are gamers and desktop PC users in general.
Quadro is Nvidia's professional line, oriented to the use of CAD and design programs. Cards are designed for architects, engineers, designers, professionals who need precision, not speed when moving graphics.
Tesla is the line of high-performance GPUs, designed to load graphics, mainly used in supercomputers. In fact there are video cards, have no outlet for connecting a monitor.
