Video Wall Construction ======Objective====== This project will have you putting together a tiled display wall and logically joining all the screens together. ======Prerequisites====== To do this project, you will need to have successfully completed: * [[spring2011/hpc0/projects/desktop_install|Linux/*BSD Desktop Install]] ======Ingredients====== You will need: * at least 2 computers (with a basic Linux install, Debian tends to stay out of your way more than Ubuntu) * each computer equipped with a dual-head video card * four LCDs (two driven by each computer) * arranged the LCds into a 2x2 matrix ======Background====== The concept of a Video Wall (better called "Tiled Display Wall") is the perfect visual example of High-Performance Computing. Taking multiple independent units, each with a given ability, and allowing them to work together to create a new unit that is more capable than the sum of its parts can be an impressive feat. But, unlike doing so on a cluster, a tiled display wall can demonstrate these concepts to those not as familiar with such concepts. ======Process====== The process of performing this project will include roughly the following: * get X up and running on both machines * get dual head operation up for both heads * obtain Xdmx (you may have to grab this file from a Debian Etch system, even if you're running a more modern release) * configure Xdmx (be mindful of screen offsets with respect to monitor panes) * run it, along with other bits (Window Manager, if desired) * demonstrate the connected nature of the monitors