CPU Clustering - two i5 650s. Can it be done?

[lklein3]

I have two identical Vostro 430 computers, with each having a intel i5 650 processor. I would like to take one of the processors and cluster it with the other in 1 computer (I would have to purchase a dual socket motherboard for this, I believe). Does anyone know if
A) Can this be done? Is it feasible?
B) If so, what are the steps I would need to take?

Thanks a lot,
Luke

 

[ShintaiDK]

Cant be done.

 

[NTMBK]

Can't be done.

 

[waffleironhead]

What exactly are you trying to accomplish?

 

[DrMrLordX]

Define "cluster". No, you can't put the two chips on the same board, but that isn't "clustering".

What you *can* do is imagine a Beowulf cluster of those:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beowulf_cluster

 

[crashtech]

If you want to play with dual CPU configurations, you'll need to find a retired workstation or server with the proper dual CPU motherboard. Some workstations with dual LGA 1366 motherboards are becoming affordable.

 

[Deders]

The i5 650 is LGA1156 Lynnfield which cut out one of the most important parts for dual CPU use compared to Nehalem. Basically the bus it needs to communicate between 2 CPU's is gone.

I bet you can find a cheap i5-750 or 760, 860 or 870 on ebay though. Probably cheaper than a dual socket board.

 

[cbn]

Probably cheaper than a dual socket board.

I've noticed the dual socket LGA 366 server and workstation boards are going for well under $100 shipped (even in new condition) on ebay.

So price isn't that bad.

One thing to be concerned about is the size of the case a person would need. (Some are marked Extended ATX while others look ATX)

EDIT: It looks like some of the boards have proprietary power connections while other have standard power connections (ie, 24 and 8 pin), so be careful in your selection.

 

[TurtleCrusher]

I'd sell both computers and get something better.

What usage do you need more than 4 cores?

 

[Smoblikat]

You can only do this with Xeons and opterons.

 

[BigDaveX]

For perspective, the last Intel desktop CPUs that could be run in an SMP configuration were the Tualatin-core Pentium IIIs. Since then, multiple CPUs has been the exclusive territory of the Xeon.