Based on peak performance, it is the fifth fastest in the world, the fastest machine based on Linux, and the largest ever built using Intel's 64-bit architecture. It is comprised of 2,000 next-generation Intel Itanium chips code-named "Madison," linked by a Quadrics interconnect, and running on industry-standard HP Integrity servers. Research scientists from across the country can access the computer through a competitive proposal process. | The new supercomputer at the Pacific Northwest National Lab operates 9,200 times faster than a desktop PC. |