PFSLib --- A File System for Parallel Programming Environments.

In 1994, LRR-TUM obtained a research grant from the Intel Foundation for design and implementation of PFSLib, a parallel file system library which provides source code compatibility with Intel's parallel file system PFS. Its primary purpose is to work together with NXLib as an emulator of a Paragon supercomputer. Furthermore, PFSLib can be used as a stand-alone software product together with other parallel programming environments like e.g. PVM. Finally, PFSLib serves as a research platform to investigate issues of parallel file systems like e.g. file distribution or design of the user interface. This document will at first give an introduction into the issues connected with parallel file sytems. The second chapter will give an extended overview over the state of the art in the field of parallel I/O. The main aspect of this investigation will concentrate on the user interfaces of current parallel file systems. Chapter 3 describes in detail concepts of the PFSLib's design and implementation. A presentation of essential data structures and the flow of control and information throughout PFSLib calls will be given. Finally, chapter 4 puts the project of PFSLib in relation to current research in the group at LRR-TUM and shows issues for future research. This report also comprises the PFSLib manual giving details on each PFSLib call. PFSLib may be distributed freely under the GNU license agreements and can be obtained at ftp://ftp.leo.orgbode.informatik.tu-muenchen.de/PFSlib/.