A distributed genetic algorithm environment for UNIX workstation clusters

This paper describes the development of the CNIX multiprocessor environment, that is specifically designed for the efficient execution of distributed genetic algorithms on clusters of UNIX work stations. CNIX is based around the TCP/IP client-server model and consists of two sets of 'C++' libraries functions. The CNIX libraries provide a standard 'C++' compiler with the necessary code to establish a multithreaded multiprocessor genetic algorithm environment. The first library migrates the major architectural features of the Transputer, along with selected instructions, to provide hardware independent parallel processing between multiple workstations and message passing communications across local area networks. The second library supplies a genetic algorithm tool kit to allow application programmers and engineers, with a basic knowledge of 'C++', to construct distributed genetic algorithm using a set of simple set of instructions. Results show that CNIX is capable of executing parallel programs over groups of UNIX workstations while achieving a multiprocessor speedup of up to 95%. Performance tests running distributed genetic algorithms across 16 workstations have demonstrated a speed-up of 15 compared to sequential 'C+ +' versions.