In this video we take a look at the software which runs on the front-end processor (FEP) and exercises control over power sequencing, console routing, cooling and instrumentation. This is written in Python, configured via YAML, and uses MQTT pub/sub messaging to decouple the daemon which communicates with the backplane, from controlling applications.

A handy command line utility (CLI) is provided for cluster control, while integration with custom applications — e.g. for orchestration and automated systems testing etc. — is made possible via MQTT and a simple JSON data format. As noted in the video, we plan to do a lot more work on the software and this includes developing a clean, consistent Python API for use alongside MQTT.

We’re also considering future support for IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface) and SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments), as used by server/blade chassis and test equipment respectively, to aid integration with existing systems.

Andrew and the Circumference Team